An Old FL Lumber Yard Will Begin Demolition For Affordable Housing By A Beloved Nature Trail

Photo byFacebook Screenshot, St. Pete Rising

Many Floridians are quite aware of a shortage of affordable housing. According to the Florida Policy Institute, Florida has become one of the least affordable places to live in the nation. As a result, Florida has become creative in finding ways to obtain housing that less affluent individuals and families can afford. I've written about a Best Western and an abandoned hospital potentially becoming affordable housing. And now, an old lumber yard in a desirable part of St. Petersburg may get the same treatment.

About The Fairfield Apartments Project: This project has actually been a long time coming. In the spring of 2022, the St. Pete City Council approved a site plan to construct 264 affordable housing apartments at 31st Street South and Fairfield Avenue, which is near both the Warehouse Arts District and the Pinellas Trail.

In November of 2023, the St. Pete City Council approved $9.7 million in funding for the project.

In October of 2024, former Florida Senator Jeff Brandes, who is associated with the project, told The Tampa Business Journal that demolition for the project should begin in the next month, depending upon contractor availability. Demolition permits are now reportedly in the approval process.

Amenities reportedly include a community pool, a playground, plus picnic and barbecue areas.

Specifics On The Qualifications For Housing: Sometimes, when I write articles about affordable housing, readers comment that what is "affordable" for one person may be expensive for another. Here are some specifics on the income and apartments available:

• 144 apartments will be designated for households earning 120% of the area's median income or less;
• 67 apartments will be designated for households earning at or below 80% of the area's median income or less; and
• 53 apartments will be set aside for households earning at or below 80% of the area's median income or less.

The author is not affiliated with The Fairfield Apartments Project.