City of Phoenix, AZ

08/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/27/2024 19:05

HUD Awards $2.5 Million Choice Neighborhoods Supplemental Grant to Phoenix’s Edison-Eastlake Neighborhood

​On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $2.5 million Choice Neighborhoods Supplemental Grant to the City of Phoenix, to continue the revitalization of the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood. The grant presentation took place in the heart of the neighborhood, at Soluna, where City officials, community leaders, residents and HUD officials gathered to celebrate the important investment.

Since being awarded a $30 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant in 2018, the City of Phoenix has made significant strides in transforming Edison-Eastlake into a vibrant, mixed-income community. This additional $2.5 million will support further developments, including new housing, expanded public spaces, and enhanced community services.

"We're proud of the progress we've made in the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood, and we're grateful for our partnership with HUD," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. "This grant will allow us to continue our transformative momentum, create additional housing, and invest in public spaces that people of all backgrounds can enjoy."

"Edison-Eastlake is a diverse neighborhood with a rich history and is ripe for a successful redevelopment. Choice Neighborhoods grants have demonstrated that with the right support for attainable housing, the incomes of families increase. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman's support means that this community, poised for redevelopment, has the tools it needs to move forward," District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington said. "But housing is just one piece of the puzzle. We are deeply committed to neighborhood revitalization and beautification, priorities that our Edison-Eastlake residents have passionately voiced. This is more than just a development, it is point of pride in our history as we continue to improve the quality of life for everyone who calls this neighborhood home."

Utilizing Choice Neighborhoods Grants awarded by HUD, the multi-year, comprehensive revitalization plan in Edison-Eastlake includes:

  • Replacing 577 aged, obsolete public housing units with over 1,000 units of high-quality, mixed-income housing with modern amenities.
  • Neighborhood improvements such as new and expanded parks, open/green spaces and public art.
  • Additional supportive services programs at two new community centers in the neighborhood offering medical and behavioral health services, Head Start classes, and other important community resources.
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) Richard Monocchio highlighted the transformative impact of the Choice Neighborhoods program, saying, "This grant is not just about funding-it's about continuing a journey of renewal and hope for the Edison-Eastlake neighborhood. HUD is proud to partner with the City of Phoenix to ensure that every resident here has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, supportive, and vibrant community."

The revitalization efforts in Edison-Eastlake are currently expected to be completed in 2027.