Public input sought in Rockford public housing revamp

On Thursday, Gorman & Company’s Andre Blakley told the RHA board it has plans worth $84 million for building units, rehabbing units and buying properties as part of its redevelopment plan. Properties include Fairgrounds, Orton Keyes, 294 scattered-site houses and development of 49 units at South New Towne Drive. Gorman’s numbers do not include Brewington Oaks.

• Ellis Heights Choice Neighborhoods task force and implementation teams. In February RHA and its consultant, Camiros Ltd., want to review progress, realign strategies, and refocus efforts to improve Ellis Heights, the neighborhood that is home to Fairgrounds Valley apartments.
• Brewington Oaks ad hoc committee. This committee will review the history of the property and help plan redevelopment of 418 units in two towers. The RHA board voted in 2014 to raze the buildings near downtown Rockford, redevelop the property and relocate tenants.
• Committee to review RHA rules and regulations. Clewer said RHA needs to update its Admissions and Continued Occupancy and Administrative plans. It has drafted proposed changes and wants input on the program that guides public housing and Section 8 programs.

Clewer said those interested in being part of the public housing discussion should email contact information to him at rclewer@rockfordha.org.