Brand new affordable housing unit on Union Avenue

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Affordable housing has been a topic of conversation all across the city.

News 12 got to take a look inside of the newest affordable housing complex.

According to Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise (CNE) and the city, affordable housing is a real issue in Chattanooga.

Martina Guilfoil is the President and CEO of CNE said, “Incomes haven’t kept pace and we just finished administering a rental relive program where people are having trouble paying rent again after COVID exponentially. So, to be able to have an affordable place where people can feel secure and stable in their lives is really important. In my mind we can’t build them fast enough.”

A brand-new affordable housing complex opened up on Union Avenue.

“This is a three-story walkup. 27 units, studio and one-bedroom units. The rents are anywhere from $685 up to about $1200,” said Guilfoil.

This new complex makes living in the city a possibility for many.

Mayor Tim Kelly said, “Right now, the easiest way for people to understand it is that a policeman, firefighter, teacher, or a server can’t live in the city of Chattanooga. That’s not a neighborhood. Everybody has an idea of a neighborhood from Mr. Rogers to Richard Scarry. That’s real, that’s what neighborhoods should look like. It should have people from a variety of backgrounds and income levels. That’s what builds vibrant neighborhoods and that’s why this project is so important.”

Mayor Kelly said more units are on the way.

“You’re going to see more affordable housing units for sure. There is a considerable backlog, and we are keeping close track of it,” Mayor Kelly added. “We are trying to get every tool available and work with developers to get them built.”

This new complex is accepting applications right now.

If you’d like to apply you can visit CNE’s website.