A local non-profit is building affordable housing for low income residents to help solve the housing crisis.
While North Nashville remains "on the rise," the cost of living keeps going up.
The painted building at 26th Avenue North and Clarksville Pike in North Nashville is part of Urban Housing Solution's initiative.
"I think for some of our residents, having affordable housing is kind of a stabilizing force," Kelsey Oesmann said. "You don't have to be worried about whether or not you're going to be able to make your next rent check."
Oesmann said all 23 units in phase one filled up in days.
"We know from the mayor's housing report last year that Nashville is facing a really severe housing shortage, and by 2025, over 30,000 units will be missing," Oesmann said.
So for now, they'll keep building.
A couple weeks ago, they began construction for phase two at the property. It will include commercial space.
"We're hoping to bring in a neighborhood café, an arts incubator, and a community clinic," Oesmann said.
The third phase of the project will be 55 apartments for low income elderly residents. They hope to open it in the spring of 2020.
"So that one is something we're really excited about, integrating health and technology to be a new model for how we do senior housing," Oesmann said.
Monthly rent starts at $530 at their 26th and Clarksville location.
"Leaving a lot more income for medication, entertainment, transportation, to really improve their quality of life," Oesmann said.
Through grants, low income tax credits, and community partnerships, they are able to rent out these spots below the market rate.
"It's really about creating a strong and healthy city," Oesmann said.
There will be 63 apartments in the second complex for artists and low income residents. They hope to start leasing next spring.
They also have a voucher program where tenants are given the option to pay one third of their salary for rent.
To learn more about their housing projects, you can click here.
