The vacant lot that was once home to the old Monessen High School will soon be bustling with families striving for a fresh start.
The three new homes are part of the Sixth Street and Reed Avenue rehabilitation initiative, a joint effort among Monessen officials, the Monessen Redevelopment Authority and Westmoreland Human Opportunities Inc. WHO is a private, nonprofit human service corporation that administers social service programs designed to alleviate and eliminate poverty in the county.
Jack Brown, WHO housing development coordinator, said the final touches are being done on the houses, as well as landscaping around the properties. "We're very pleased at the progress and are nearly completed," Brown said.
The homes are available to buyers who must meet federal income guidelines. Potential buyers also must participate in an educational program through the WHO Homebuyers Resource Center. To qualify, the total gross income allowed for a family of three is $41,300. It is $45,900 for a family of four.
Brown said there are a "few potential buyers in a landing pattern" who have expressed interest in the homes. Project costs for the construction of the homes were covered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Through the HUD Homes program, federal money is allocated to counties for home projects.
Counties disburse the money to cities and boroughs that undertake qualified projects.
WHO bought the modular homes from New Era, a Clarion-based company. The homes were brought to Monessen in sections on board tractor-trailers, and an 80-ton crane was used to lift the sections. Brown said once the three homes are sold, they plan on building three more at the site. There goal is to sell a total of 10 homes at the site. Brown explained the two-story houses feature three bedrooms, 1 1/2 bathrooms, a front porch and high-efficiency heating and air-conditioning systems. The homes are also carpeted and have dishwashers.
For information about WHO housing development projects, call 724-834-1260.
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