Construction of a new development in Overtown promises a much-needed lift for one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods.

A new construction project in Miami’s historic Overtown neighborhood ceremonially broke ground on Wednesday, March 18, as part of a larger initiative to help bring more affordable housing to one the city’s traditionally underserved areas.

The development, named Island Living Apartments, is being erected at 1201 NW Third Avenue, in the heart of the neighborhood’s commercial corridor. It’s one of four new affordable housing projects planned for the area, and upon completion, promises future tenants eight stories of residential space – enough for 70 affordable rental units, with one-, two- and three-bedroom options – and 5,000 square feet of ground floor commercial space, which will include a playground for children.

“The affordable housing project will offer units at below market rate to individuals and families,” a statement from Mayor Tomás Regalado’s office read. “At least 50 percent of the units will be dedicated to households with incomes that do not exceed 60 percent of the area median income for Miami-Dade County.”

Overcoming History

Founded in the early years of Miami’s development, in the late 19th century, Overtown was originally known as Colored Town, a distinction gained as it was the only area in the city where black residents were allowed to purchase land.

Today, Overtown is still predominantly African American at 74 percent, according to the city’s website. However, even after decades of integration, the area is still reeling from segregation.

According to data from Point 2 Homes, median household income for Overtown is $21,132, and of its approximate 11,000 population, nearly 7,000 do not have a high school diploma, making it one of the city’s most uneducated neighborhoods.

Drawing from U.S. Census Bureau data, those figures are a stark contrast to Miami’s overall median household income, which was $43,100 in 2013.

The hope is that by providing Overtown residents with more accommodating living arrangements, the city can work to slowly elevate conditions in the area.

“As the City of Miami continues to develop, we want to ensure that our residents have access to adequate housing,” District 5 Commissioner Keon Hardemon told The Miami Times. “Projects such as Island Living do just that. This mixed-use development is one of many changes that will enhance the lives of the residents of the Historic Overtown community.”