Fifth-year architecture students at UL Lafayette are designing a new subdivision in northeast Lafayette in the McComb/Veazey area.
The pocket neighborhood will be made up exclusively of houses built by Lafayette Habitat for Humanity, the local affiliate for Habitat for Humanity International. HFHI is a global, nonprofit housing organization that builds affordable homes in partnership with low-income buyers. Future homeowners contribute “sweat equity” by helping to build their own homes.
The subdivision is being developed along East Pinhook Road, between Gauthier Road and South Magnolia Street, on about one and a half acres. It will include 13 new homes and a community pavilion. The structures will be energy efficient and require minimal maintenance.
“Nationally, Habitat is moving toward neighborhood revitalization, rather than simply building individual houses. Creating a neighborhood will also give residents a support network, because they are having a similar experience and can rely on each other,” said Melinda Taylor, director of Lafayette Habitat.
Funding for the project is provided through a Lafayette Consolidated Government grant with matching funds from local businesses, churches and other organizations.
Habitat will focus on the McComb/Veazey area for the next few years.