On May 16, Governor Matt Meyer joined Delaware State Housing Authority Director Matthew Heckles, state leaders and housing advocates to celebrate a groundbreaking for the redevelopment of George Read Village, a project of the Newark Housing Authority (NHA) and Ingerman.

Made possible by nearly $26.6 million in local, state and federal investments, the project will bring 72 affordable housing units, an increase of 18 units, to the housing authority along Main Street in Newark.

“The George Read Village redevelopment is a shining example of what we can achieve when we invest in our communities and prioritize the needs of working families,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “These 18 new affordable homes in downtown Newark are more than housing — they represent opportunity, stability, and a stronger Delaware. This project aligns with our statewide commitment to expand affordable housing, streamline development processes, and ensure every Delawarean has a place to call home. As we celebrate this milestone, we must continue to push forward with zoning reforms, reduced construction costs, and creating innovative financing tools to meet the growing demand for affordable housing across our state.”

Marene Jordan, executive director of the Newark Housing Authority, called the groundbreaking a major milestone in the mission of the Newark Housing Authority in providing more affordable housing for those in need in the City of Newark. “It is my hope that this is just the beginning of a new era of commitment to this great need. It shows what can be accomplished when dedicated visionaries work hard and long toward a common goal for the good of a community and its deserving people,” Jordan said. “The Newark Housing Authority is greatly appreciative to all those who contributed their time, efforts, talents and funds in bringing this to a reality. It is my belief that this will not be the last project and groundbreaking event for a deserving group in our community and the Newark Housing Authority will always be steadfast in its goal of greater achievements.”

“This project will not only improve the need for affordable housing, it will enhance the diversity of the City of Newark, which is a unique college town with a strong emphasis on student housing. Developing for individuals and families is refreshing,” said Nikki Lane, Chair, Board of Commissioners, Newark Housing Authority.

The redevelopment project will replace the existing residential structure with a modern, mid-rise, mixed-use building and add five new cottages for family housing. The apartments will be available to households with incomes between 30% and 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to those who need it most.

“This redevelopment of George Read Village shows what can happen with collaboration, investments and vision. Bringing 18 new units to this area of Newark will have a meaningful impact on the community and address our critical housing supply issues,” said Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) Director Matthew Heckles.

The project received significant funding, including $5.39 million from DSHA, $3.985 million in ARPA funds, $1 million in New Castle County HOME funding and $431,000 from the city of Newark. In addition, $1.06 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credits generated approximately $10 million in equity.

“The groundbreaking of this housing project is about more than just shelter, it’s about commitment to the people we serve,” said New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry. “This project reflects our shared belief that everyone deserves a safe, dignified place to live, and I’m proud that New Castle County is part of making that vision a reality.”

“After much success with The Willows at Alder Creek, Ingerman is thrilled to partner once again with the Newark Housing Authority to bring additional high-quality affordable housing to the people of Newark. We could not have reached this important milestone without the community’s support and our collaboration with the DSHA, city leadership and staff who share our vision to expand and improve the City’s affordable housing offerings,” said David Holden, Development Principal at Ingerman.