The city of West Palm Beach has welcomed a new workforce housing project in Northwood Village. The Spruce, which celebrated its grand opening last weekend, offers 270 units, with 117 designated as workforce housing. This project is one of the largest workforce housing initiatives in the city in recent years.

Affordability and Opportunity

According to Jade Greene, the city’s Housing and Community Development Director, the workforce units are priced between 80 to 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with the county’s 36 units going up to 140% AMI. This provides a good spread of income levels, addressing the needs of the middle workforce, a priority for the growing community.

Emilee Gately, a resident of The Spruce, was drawn to the building’s rooftop pool, but it was the price tag that convinced her to sign a lease. ‘I wasn’t even looking for workforce housing, but I’m grateful to be a part of it,’ Gately said. ‘It means a lot to me, as I work in West Palm, and I feel like my work is accounted for, and everything is equal and fair.’

Investment and Growth

The city of West Palm Beach and its community redevelopment agency contributed nearly $8 million to the project. Greene believes this investment will help small businesses in the area and bring more attention to the opportunities available. The city is working to bridge the gap between market and affordable housing, with more projects in the works for this neighborhood.

The Spruce is currently leasing, and the workforce housing units are filling up quickly. Officials are urging interested individuals to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.