ABSTRACT
The surrounding neighborhoods are long-standing, close-knit, historically African-American, middle-class neighborhoods; however, blight and vacant housing have been an ongoing issue since the late 1990s. While the single-family and multi-family housing stock is good comprising mostly concrete block units, most of the existing homes were built between the 1950s and 1970s, and many houses are currently rentals with absentee landlords. Through a competitive solicitation, the City of Orlando selected Hannibal Square Community Land Trust to redevelop six multi-family residential parcels at the southwest corner of Orange Center Boulevard and Tampa Avenue in Orlando. Research has proven that, in addition to being instrumental in narrowing the wealth gap, affordable homeownership stabilizes neighborhoods and boosts resident engagement. Homeownership encourages property upkeep, which leads to higher home values. The area is in the heart of Orlando with easy access to shopping, schools, and entertainment. Lynx public transportation is also within comfortable walking distance.
