Transformation Strategy
University Area CDC created Harvest Hope Properties, LLC in 2016, as a real estate arm of the organization, to aggressively acquire properties through our established land banking program. Land is one of the most important factors in local economic development and by viewing these properties as potential assets, rather than barriers to revitalization, land banking provides a new way to reinvest in our neighborhoods. University Area CDC’s concept aims to convert vacant properties that are contaminated, or have been neglected by the open market, into productive use; thereby transforming neighborhood liabilities into assets. By keeping attainable housing a key priority in the University Area, University Area CDC utilizes Harvest Hope Properties to serve as the catalyst for community development and revitalization. Through property acquisition, the community informs what type of attainable housing or community benefit is built and where, growing our community one block at a time.
About University Area CDC’s Neighborhood Transformation Strategy
University Area CDC’s Neighborhood Transformation Strategy focuses on a community development model that effectively supports University Area residents in a real and meaningful way. Our holistic approach is one that engages and empowers the community by including them in the process of creation, implementation and management. Serving as the “connector”, University Area CDC is working to address and partner on services that are needed in order to stabilize our community and provide opportunities to the residents who call it home.
Our revitalization efforts fuel economic and social progress by creating mixed use housing, neighborhood development and job opportunities that focus on providing a better quality of life to our residents. Our strategic direction is outlined in the following eight initiatives.
HARVEST HOPE PARK: The 7-acre park opened in 2019 and is now flourishing with resident activity & programming. It serves as a springboard for transformational change in the area. Up next for development includes a sunshade for the playground, a splash pad and additional parking.
BLOCK-BY-BLOCK MODEL: This 10-week program works one-on-one with area families to identify their needs and connect them with resources and items of assistance, all while building meaningful relationships with residents. This holistic program is implemented one block at a time.
SAFETY ACTION PLAN: This plan was designed to help reduce crime and improve perceptions of safety based on sound research, along with community and resident engagement. It will ensure recommendations continue to be implemented for the good of the community.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: The goal of the Community Outreach department is to build bridges into the community to better communicate current services, support options and activities with residents, while also identifying their needs in order to continue serving residents effectively.
PARTNERS COALITION: Members work with individuals at the “street-level” and strategizing with law enforcement, administrators, residents, funders and business owners to make decisions and guide responses to community needs, programming and distribution of funding.
HOUSING & LAND BANKING: University Area CDC aims to convert vacant properties into productive use, thereby transforming neighborhood liabilities into assets and serving as a catalyst for community development & revitalization. Residents are consulted as to what type of attainable housing is built and where.
COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE: Adequate infrastructure is critical to support and sustain a community. UACDC is working to create a transportation network in the University Area that focuses on sidewalks and lighting, as well as bike and pedestrian safety, with walkability as a primary focus.
UNIVERSITY AREA CULTURAL CAMPUS: The mission of the Cultural Campus is to primarily serve as a navigational hub, connecting community residents with trusted partners who are providing direct programing and services. The design focuses on embedding amenities within the community in a walkable environment.
