$250K Secured To Help Revitalize Fairmont Neighborhood

LOCKPORT, IL — A $250,000 appropriation in the state budget has been secured to support Habitat for Humanity's neighborhood revitalization effort in the Fairmont neighborhood in unincorporated Lockport, according to a release from State Sen. Rachel Ventura's office.

This partnership aims to foster community growth, improve living conditions and provide quality affordable housing for residents in need.

“By focusing on quality, sustainability, and community engagement, this collaboration will provide a brighter future for families in Fairmont,” Ventura said in a release. “These dollars will help residents in the 43rd District prosper and flourish in life, and I look forward to working with Will County and Habitat for Humanity to make this revitalization project come to life.”

Will County Habitat for Humanity has built a model that involves strategic collaborations and active engagement from local organizations, businesses, and residents, working together to create sustainable, safe and vibrant neighborhoods, according to a release.

Partnering with the Fairmont neighborhood community and other stakeholders, they will pursue a variety of initiatives and projects over the next five years to revitalize the area.

Habitat for Humanity will continue to build and repair homes, and recently acquired six scattered site properties. They are currently in the process of obtaining an additional 18 sites to construct much-needed quality homes in the neighborhood, a release states.

Last year, Will County also donated five lots for residential construction.

“Will County is proud to donate surplus lots as part of its pilot ‘reclaimed property program’ to create more affordable housing options in the Fairmont neighborhood,” Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant said in a release. “The donation of these lots aligns with several ongoing local efforts to support neighborhood revitalization, including through improving infrastructure, creating new community gardens, and rehabbing over 50 local homes. I appreciate the hard work of the Will County Community Development Division and all local partners in implementing the Fairmont Neighborhood Plan.”