Yesterday marked a significant milestone for affordable housing in Lakeland. Developer Blue Sky Communities has announced its latest properties — Swan Lake Village and Swan Landing.
Swan Landing broke ground in November 2022 and was just completed. The first residents have already moved in. Swan Landing will include 39 1-bedroom units, 45 2-bedroom units, and 4 3-bedroom units, totaling 88 apartments for local families. Rents will range between $430 to $1,590 a month for those making 30%-80% of AMI. Amenities include a clubhouse with a lounge, leasing offices, fitness center, swimming pool, and a playground.
Swan Lake Village was completed in early 2023. The community has 84 units consisting of 48 1-bedrooms and 36 2-bedrooms with rents ranging from between $573 to $1,032 a month for those making 40%-60% of AMI. Forty two units are for Permanent Supportive Housing for persons with a Disabling Condition. Amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, and walkable grounds. Community Assisted and Supported Living Inc. (CASL) is a 25% Partner in this phase, and they provide a menu of services and counseling options.
Finding a home among huge rent increases
Swan Lake Village resident, Edwin, spoke about his experience, “I’ve been a Lakeland area resident for a long time, but during Covid I had to leave temporarily. When I returned, I was shocked to find the rents had more than doubled, and the conditions were unlivable in most of these places. I am disabled and on a fixed income, an income that no longer was enough for me to rent anywhere.”
He continues, “I contacted CASL, and they were able to get me an apartment in Swan Lake Village. Since then, my life has turned around. Blue Sky did a really great job constructing this community. I got a new home that was efficient, clean, and low maintenance. My neighbors are very friendly. There’s a sense of community here, everyone respects the space and keeps things safe, clean, and quiet.”
Financing affordable housing
Financing for these projects was possible in part due to Florida Housing Finance Corporation, Bank of America, Neighborhood Lending Partners, and Raymond James Affordable Housing Investments. The City of Lakeland contributed $1.5 million dollars in direct and indirect funds, and Polk County gave $2.1 million dollars in direct and indirect funds. Shawn Wilson, President of Blue Sky Communities, shared, “We are honored to have both the City and the County’s support to help make affordable housing a reality for so many local families.”