Groundbreaking for Jersey Commons: A New Chapter in Affordable Housing

(Winter Haven, FL – Feb. 16, 2024) -This morning, Blue Sky Communities, in partnership with CASL, and Tri-County Human Services, announced the groundbreaking of Jersey Commons, an innovative affordable housing complex designed to cater to high-need families seeking permanent supportive housing.

The ceremony took place at 11:00 AM and was held on site, at 2817 Jersey Rd NW in Winter Haven, FL 33881. Remarks were provided by Winter Haven Mayor, Nathaniel Birdsong, Donn VanStee of Tri-County Human Services, Alan Davison of Central Florida Behavioral Health Network, Scott Eller of Community Assisted & Supported Living, and Shawn Wilson of Blue Sky Communities.

Shawn Wilson said, “Polk County is one of the fastest growing areas in the USA and Blue Sky is committed to helping local governments keep up with the demand for Affordable Rental Housing. We are providing not only housing but counseling and services for a population that needs and deserves it.”

With an investment of $23 million, Jersey Commons aims to address the critical need for affordable housing in the area, offering a mix of 68 one and two-bedroom units across three buildings. These units are specifically tailored to meet the needs of families with varying incomes, with rents ranging from $402 to $964, based on the Area Median Income (AMI) limits of 30%, 50%, and 60%.

“This is really a transformative moment for Winter Haven and the Polk County community. This initiative represents a powerful collaboration aimed at addressing the critical need for affordable housing and comprehensive support services and sets a new standard in our community,” shared Mayor Nathaniel Birdsong.

Jersey Commons is more than just a housing complex; it’s a community designed with residents’ well-being in mind. Amenities include a fitness center, a community room, and coordinated residential services to foster a supportive and inclusive environment.

Furthermore, this pioneering project will feature additional future housing and a new center to provide barrier-free access to essential behavioral health and primary care services. In collaboration with Central Florida Behavioral Health Network, Jersey Commons is committed to reducing resident reliance on local crisis services, empowering residents to maintain independence to contribute positively to society and ensuring a successful and healthier community.

The property, managed by Carteret Management, is set to welcome tenants in early 2025. This initiative is part of a major funding effort through the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, in a Pilot program aimed at providing housing for individuals who have been cycling through various forms of crisis services.

Additional funding that made this project possible is due in thanks to the Sadowski Funds, Polk County, City of Auburndale, Raymond James Tax Credits Funds, and TD Bank.

Jersey Commons gladly accepts section 8 housing vouchers, VASH, or any other form of agency rental assistance. Interested parties are encouraged to pre-register at https://www.jerseycommons.com/preregistration to become part of this transformative community effort.

About Blue Sky Communities, LLC

Formed in 2012, Blue Sky Communities is a leader in working with nonprofit organizations to develop new and rehabilitate existing multifamily housing communities. Blue Sky acts as a leading advocate for helping nonprofit groups and local governments reach their affordable housing goals by developing state-of-the-art, environmentally sound affordable housing units.