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The City of Selma announced a 27-unit home development project planned to revitalize neighborhoods recovering from the Jan. 12, 2023 tornado. 

A press conference was held Jan. 30 in the area of the 1400 block of Washington Avenue, the site of the first modular homes delivered and set into place.

Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. and Selma Housing Authority (SHA) CEO Kennard Randolph were joined by Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA) CEO Bruce Marks to unveil plans of affordable housing. 

The Safe Livable Neighborhoods Recovery Initiative urges residents to become homeowners and help solve Selma’s crisis shortage.

“The primary key to neighborhood revitalization is homeownership,” Perkins said. “When people own their homes, they protect their properties, and they care about their neighborhoods. It’s a great start to housing.’’

Randolph thanked Perkins, NACA and the SHA Board of Directors, which includes Pastors John Grayson and Lawrence Wofford.

“If you work together, you can build things together like this,” Randolph said. “I appreciate the Mayor, NACA and the Selma Housing Authority board.”

Marks said the opportunity will create affordable housing for residents using Section 8 vouchers. Marks also said that the lots will each be a 1,400-square-foot house with 9-foot ceilings and energy efficiency. Two- to four-bedroom and two-bath homes are available.

“If you’re paying $500, $600, $700 or $800 in rent, you can use that for your mortgage payment,” Marks said.

City of Selma planning and Development Director Danielle Wooten said the numerous partnerships played a big role in the project. 

“We couldn’t have gotten this done without our partners,” Wooten said. “I reached out to Selma Housing Authority and Kennard Randolph.”

Selma City Council members Atkin Jemison and Lesia James attended the event.  Jemison, whose Ward includes Washington Avenue, said it’s a big deal to get the neighborhood revitalized.