The City of South Bend, in partnership with Affordable HomeMATTERS Indiana, an initiative of Intend Indiana, announced construction of 92 new construction homeownership opportunities in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. The multi-year project aims to address the need for affordable housing in South Bend by transforming vacant lots into vibrant new homes, fostering a sense of community and economic stability.

The project will feature homes designed for residents with diverse income levels. About 50 percent of the homes will be sold to individuals and families earning under 80% of the area median income (AMI), making homeownership accessible to those with low to moderate incomes. Of the remaining homes, about 20 percent will be sold to those earning between 81-120% AMI, with the rest sold at market rate, promoting a mixed-income community that supports inclusivity and diversity.

The City is supporting the Lincoln Park development through a $5 million Economic Development Commission (EDC) Statute Loan and the transfer of city-owned properties. This support will help bring new life to vacant lots in historically underserved areas, aligning with the City’s goal of reducing blight and increasing homeownership opportunities for its residents. The project will not only offer new housing but will also engage local contractors and stakeholders throughout the development process, ensuring that the benefits of the project extend beyond housing to include economic opportunities for the broader community.

Construction is set to begin in October 2024 and continue through 2029. The South Bend Redevelopment Commission has approved a $5 million contribution for the project, contingent upon the nonprofit developer committing $20 million to ensure the successful completion of these homes by 2029. This investment aligns with the City’s ongoing efforts to address vacant infill lots and provide new opportunities for residents to build wealth through homeownership.