Lifelong Friends Transform Ybor City with $3M Affordable Housing Project
Three Tampa natives, who forged a lifelong friendship at Tampa Bay Tech, are making a significant impact on their community by spearheading a new $3 million affordable housing initiative in Ybor City. Their dream of giving back has officially broken ground, providing much-needed family-sized units for local residents.
Local Visionaries Behind the Project
Dontavious Pittman, Kevin Johnson, and Ponce McNeal, founders of Pittman Design Group, recently celebrated a major milestone as the City of Tampa officially cut the ribbon on their first multifamily development. Their shared vision originated from a deep personal connection to the area and a desire to address its housing challenges.
Project Details: Addressing Tampa’s Housing Needs
Grant Funding and Location
The Pittman Design Group secured a substantial $3 million grant through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program. This funding enabled the construction of a 10-unit apartment complex situated strategically at the corner of Columbus Drive and 21st Street in Ybor City.
Designed for Affordability
This development is tailored specifically for households earning 80% or less of the area’s median income (AMI). For a family of four, this translates to an annual income of approximately $83,000 or less. Crucially, six of the ten units are reserved for families earning 50% AMI, or around $52,000 annually, ensuring access for lower-income households.
Family-Focused Units
The complex features a mix of two and three-bedroom units, a design choice specifically made with families in mind. District 1 Councilman Alan Clendenin emphasized the importance of this, noting a significant deficit in family-sized affordable units within Tampa. This project directly addresses that critical gap, moving beyond the prevalence of smaller studio or one-bedroom options.
Bridging Communities and Inspiring Future Development
Connecting Historic Neighborhoods
For Kevin Johnson, the project carries a symbolic weight, bridging East Tampa and Ybor City. He highlighted Columbus Drive as a historical dividing line between predominantly Black neighborhoods in East Tampa and historically Cuban Ybor. The development aims to represent this rich cultural tapestry, honoring figures like Afro-Cuban General Antonio Maceo.
Representation in Development
As some of the few Black developers in Tampa, the Pittman Design Group partners also see their work as a crucial act of representation. Johnson articulated their hope to inspire others, demonstrating that such ambitious projects are achievable for individuals who share their background. Their journey underscores the importance of diverse voices in shaping urban development.
A Gateway to East Tampa
The group’s ambitions extend beyond this initial project. Their long-term goal is to continue the redevelopment of the corridor, envisioning it as “the gateway to East Tampa.” This commitment signals a sustained effort to transform and uplift the area, fostering continued growth and opportunity.
City Leaders Commend Partnership
Mayor Jane Castor lauded the developers’ dedication and the city’s vital partnership. She acknowledged Tampa’s rising incomes but also the challenge of escalating housing costs that price out many residents. Mayor Castor stressed the city’s focus on affordable housing and praised the decision to “take a chance” on the Pittman Design Group, providing the $3 million to realize these much-needed units.
Affordable Housing Income Tiers
| Income Level (AMI) | Max Annual Income (Family of 4) |
|---|---|
| 80% of Area Median Income | ~ $83,000 |
| 50% of Area Median Income | ~ $52,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ybor City Project
- Who are the developers behind this project?
The project was spearheaded by Pittman Design Group, founded by lifelong Tampa friends Dontavious Pittman, Kevin Johnson, and Ponce McNeal. - Where is the new affordable housing complex located?
The 10-unit apartment complex is located at the corner of Columbus Drive and 21st Street in Ybor City. - Who is eligible for these affordable units?
Units are available for households earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). Six units are specifically for those earning 50% AMI or less. - Why are these family-sized units particularly important?
City officials note a significant shortage of family-sized affordable housing (2- and 3-bedroom units) in Tampa, making this project crucial for local families. - What is the long-term vision of Pittman Design Group for the area?
The developers aim to continue redeveloping this corridor, viewing it as “the gateway to East Tampa,” with a goal to keep Tampa natives local.
This project is a powerful testament to how local commitment and collaborative partnerships can create tangible solutions for Tampa’s affordable housing crisis, ensuring that lifelong residents can continue to call the city home.
Tampa friends transform Ybor with affordable homes
