New Affordable Apartments Open in Historic Ybor City
Tampa’s vibrant Ybor City has welcomed a significant new development aimed at alleviating the growing need for affordable housing. The Casa Maceo Apartments, a 10-unit complex, officially opened its doors on Monday, offering essential housing options for local families. This project represents a successful collaboration between community-rooted developers and the City of Tampa.
Casa Maceo: A Vital Addition to the Community
The newly unveiled Casa Maceo Apartments consist of 10 well-appointed units, each designed with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. This thoughtful development is the vision of local partners Dontavious Pittman, Kevin Johnson, and Ponce McNeal from Shacres Development, all of whom are deeply rooted in the Tampa community.
Collaborative Funding Powers Local Development
The realization of Casa Maceo was made possible through a crucial partnership with the City of Tampa. In 2023, the Shacres Development team successfully secured a substantial $3 million grant from a state affordable housing program. This vital funding was instrumental in transforming a previously vacant plot in Ybor City into this modern, much-needed residential complex.
Addressing Tampa’s Affordable Housing Needs
A core objective of the Casa Maceo Apartments is to provide housing solutions for individuals and families earning 80% of the area’s median income (AMI) and below. To give residents a clear picture, this income threshold roughly translates to an annual household income of $83,000 for a family of four. The complex is specifically designed to maximize accessibility across various income levels within the affordable housing guidelines.
Income Tiers and Unit Allocation
The City of Tampa has outlined the allocation strategy for the units to serve different income brackets effectively. Out of the ten available units, six are designated for households earning 50% AMI and below, ensuring support for those with lower incomes. The remaining four units are set aside for those earning 80% AMI and below.
| Affordability Tier | Units Available | Approximate Household Income (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|
| 50% AMI and Below | 6 | Less than $83,000 (specific amount not provided) |
| 80% AMI and Below | 4 | Up to $83,000 |
Local Vision, Lasting Community Impact
The project has received significant acclaim from Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, who lauded the importance of local investment in community development. “I could not be prouder of what Shacres Development has accomplished here in Ybor City,” Mayor Castor stated. “Dontavious Pittman, Ponce McNeal, and their team are homegrown talent, born and raised right here in Tampa, and now they’re giving back to the very neighborhoods that shaped them.”
Mayor Castor further emphasized the broader positive implications of this development, noting that it extends far beyond simply providing new homes. “This development is more than just new housing — it’s a testament to what happens when local visionaries invest in their own community to make Tampa a place where everyone can afford to live and thrive,” she added. This highlights the project as a model for future initiatives aimed at fostering economic stability and growth for all residents.
Strategically Located for Urban Access
The Casa Maceo Apartments are ideally situated on Columbus Drive, bordering the vibrant and historic districts of East Tampa and Ybor City. This prime location offers residents convenient access to the rich cultural amenities, entertainment, and employment opportunities characteristic of these dynamic urban areas, further contributing to community revitalization.
Frequently Asked Questions About Casa Maceo Apartments
- What is the Casa Maceo Apartments project?
It is a newly opened 10-unit affordable apartment complex in Ybor City, Tampa, developed by Shacres Development in partnership with the City of Tampa to address local housing needs. - How many units are available and what are their features?
There are 10 units in total, each offering three bedrooms and two bathrooms, specifically designed for families seeking affordable living spaces. - Who is eligible to live in these apartments?
The apartments are intended for households earning 80% of the area’s median income (AMI) or below. Six units are allocated for 50% AMI and below, and four units for 80% AMI and below. - What was the primary funding source for this development?
The project was significantly bolstered by a $3 million grant awarded in 2023 from a state affordable housing program, demonstrating government commitment to affordable housing initiatives. - What is the long-term vision or implication of this development for Tampa?
Mayor Jane Castor views Casa Maceo as a benchmark, showcasing how local investment and visionary leadership can make Tampa a place where all residents can afford to live and thrive, setting a precedent for future community-focused projects.
The successful launch of Casa Maceo Apartments serves as a powerful reminder that with strategic partnerships, dedicated local visionaries, and a commitment to inclusive growth, Tampa can continue to build a more equitable and thriving future where affordable housing is a reality for more of its residents.
Ybor City Opens New Affordable Housing
