Clearwater, Fla. – After more than two years of construction, Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside marked the finish of Longlake Preserve on Friday, welcoming the final five families into the affordable housing development.

Project overview

Longlake Preserve comprises 52 townhomes and two single‑family homes built in six phases that began in December 2023. The neighborhood now offers 54 homes for families who have completed Habitat’s homeownership program and qualify for a zero‑percent‑interest mortgage.

“The completion of Longlake Preserve is a truly special milestone for Habitat and, most importantly, for the 54 families who now have a safe, affordable place to call home,” said Mike Sutton, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside.

Community impact

The development addresses the growing affordable‑housing challenge in the Tampa Bay area, where rising home prices and mortgage rates have made homeownership increasingly out of reach for many families. Habitat’s model reinvests mortgage payments from current homeowners to fund future construction, extending the benefits of each project.

Since 1985, Habitat for Humanity has partnered with more than 1,000 homeowner families across Pinellas, West Pasco and Hernando counties, helping to create stable, long‑term homeownership opportunities.

Public‑private partnership

Longlake Preserve was made possible through collaboration with the State of Florida, Pinellas County, the City of Largo, local businesses and nonprofit supporters. Funding also came from the Penny for Pinellas program, state appropriations, and a contribution from Verizon to strengthen the homes against future storms.

Looking ahead

With the project now complete, Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside plans to continue building affordable homes throughout Pinellas, West Pasco and Hernando counties, expanding homeownership opportunities for more local families.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.