FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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 Awards Distributed at the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development

Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (HMFA), the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority today announced the winners of the 2015 Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards, which are presented to the most outstanding housing and economic development projects and partnerships throughout New Jersey.

The state award program celebrates the best in housing revitalization, public-private economic development partnerships, mixed-income development, and supportive housing developments that strengthen the vitality of our communities, contribute to economic growth, and demonstrate the potential to have a lasting impact. The awards were presented at the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development, which was held on October 27-28, 2015 in Atlantic City.

"This year’s award recipients have all shown dedication and commitment to strengthening communities across the state and forming a foundation for economic growth," said DCA Commissioner Charles A. Richman, who also serves as Chairman of the HMFA. "Identifying and recognizing projects that best exemplify excellence in housing and economic development sets the standard for additional projects to come."

2015 Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards

Leading Housing Revitalization Award

Winner: Rush Crossing, Trenton, Mercer County (Pennrose)

Advancing the vitality of the neighborhood and strengthening local economic growth through the redevelopment of a former blighted, crime-ridden public housing project into affordable housing. The property is the largest new construction residential development in Trenton in more than 25 years.

Leading Supportive Housing Development through Creative Partnerships

Winner: Freedom Village at Hopewell, Pennington, Mercer County (Project Freedom)

Developing new affordable housing with units set aside for individuals with special needs. Supportive services will be available on site to assist tenants in moving towards independence and self-sufficiency.

Leading Mixed-Income Development Award

Winner: Milan at City Center, Pleasantville, Atlantic County (RPM)

Constructing LEED-certified multi-phase project in the heart of downtown with affordable and market-rate housing and retail space. Located close to public transportation and existing developments, this project will have a lasting impact on the community.

Leading Public-Private Economic Development Partnership Award

Winner: The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, Camden, Camden County

"The Kroc Center"

Former landfill was transformed into a $90 million state-of-the-art community center providing positive opportunities for inner city residents. The Kroc Center is one of only 27 similar community centers nationwide to support communities in need.

"We are pleased to honor these projects with the Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards," said HMFA Executive Director Anthony L. Marchetta. "I look forward to continued partnerships with municipalities, neighborhoods, communities and engaged citizens as we work to enhance the quality of life in New Jersey."

The ceremony honoring the four Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Award winners was held Wednesday, October 28th at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City.

HMFA, an affiliated agency of the DCA, provides financing for workforce homeownership and affordable rental opportunities for New Jersey residents and administers the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program for New Jersey.

For more information on the Excellence in Housing and Economic Development Awards and the 2015 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development, please visit www.njhousingconference.com.

CONTACT:
Tammori Petty
or Emike Omogbai
(609) 292-6055