The Wilmington Neighborhood Conservancy Land Bank is closing in on 400 blighted properties transformed since 2018.
A $250,000 grant from Bank of America is going to the Land Bank’s Lower Hilltop Equitable Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative.
During a ceremony and building tour Tuesday, Councilwoman at-large Maria Cabrera said it means more than dollars and cents: “it’s a seed of hope, a catalyst for change, and a clear sign that when public and private sectors come together, we can truly transform lives.”
State Senator Elizabeth “Tizzy” Lockman, D-Wilmington, said housing-related hearings she has chaired further make it clear that the housing crisis is real – and some aspects are particularly challenging in Wilmington.
“First-time homebuyers are finding fewer and fewer options that they can afford, families are being priced out of opportunities, entire neighborhoods are still carrying the legacy of disinvestment and vacancy… we know that all too well,” Lockman said.
Also taking part in Tuesdays event were Councilwoman Christian Willauer, the Land Bank’s first Executive Director, and State Representative Josue Ortega, D-Wilmington, a native of the city’s west side.
Bank of America Delaware President Chip Rossi said this is long-term work, but well worth it.
“As a team collectively and as a community, we have to keep at it.”
Get WDEL’s top stories sent right to your email. Click here to signup for WDEL’s Afternoon Edition.
And get breaking news notifications sent right to your mobile device. Click here to download the WDEL app – which gives you easy on-the-go access to WDEL’s stream.
