Phase Three of Spicewood Gardens Breaks Ground

Current residents from Spicewood Gardens in Sheridan kicked off construction of phase three of Spicewood Gardens developed by HAND.  When construction is done, phase three will provide eight additional units similar to the existing 52 units in Sheridan.  HAND (Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development) provides quality affordable housing to low income residents.

“The current residents are really excited about us offering more units. What makes this property special is the sense of community that has grown from these residents,” says Lichti.   The residents plan pot-luck dinners, euchre tournaments and other events. According to Beverly Frederick a Spicewood resident, “We are a family, we take care of each other.”

“Our wait list for phase one and two has approximately 180 people on it.  Some have been on the wait list since October 2009.  The need for affordable senior housing is great.” reported Nate Lichti, Executive Director of HAND.

HAND’s mission is to invest in neighborhoods, build partnerships and provide housing solutions to improve lives and build community in Hamilton County. HAND does this by providing affordable housing options through the development of rental properties, assisting low income homeowners with repairs, and partnering with neighborhood groups on beautification and improvement projects.

This project is possible due to support from various local and state organizations as well as private donors.  HAND received support through competitive grants awarded late last year by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis.  The Hamilton County Commissioners allocated federal Community Development Block Grant funds to fill the final remaining gap and Lake City Bank is financing construction.

HAND has another project that is currently underway as well.  They have started the rehabilitation of a property on 8th Street in Noblesville and will convert a previously vacant building to six units.  “This continues the collaborative efforts to revitalize the 8th corridor in Noblesville and support the local neighborhoods,” says Nate Lichti