Habitat for Humanity to help residents in Fayetteville neighborhood
FAYETTEVILLE (WTVD) -- Residents in one Fayetteville neighborhood could soon see big changes in their blighted community.
Liz Bolton has lived on B Street, between Person and Grove Streets, for 57 years. She said she has seen a lot of changes, but not all of it has been good.
"We have had problems with prostitution and drugs," said Bolton, who went on to say residents' pleas have fallen on deaf ears. "We were a poor area, and it just seem like our voices were not being heard."
However, the residents have been heard by Habitat for Humanity, which now has ambitious plans for area.
"We may be building houses in revitalization," said Habitat for Humanity Executive Tammy Laurence. "We may be building businesses. We may be working with existing owners to carry out their wishes."
Habitat for Humanity has already built dozens of sweat-equity homes for residents in Fayetteville, but this project Laurence said is unique for Fayetteville. Instead of just building homes on lots, they are revitalizing the entire neighborhood.
Laurence said federal grants and investments will help fund the multi-million dollar project. She said residents will have a big say in what will be done. They spent months talking with residents and listening to their ideas.
"We have listened to what they want for the area and their dreams," said Laurence.
The neighborhood project's first organizational meeting is at noon Wednesday at the Habitat for Humanity office on Green Street in Fayetteville. Anyone interested in volunteering to help with the project is invited to attend.
