Homestead officials approve Bluenest's 51-unit workforce housing project with community support

During a recent Miami-Dade County Planning Advisory Board meeting, community members voiced strong support for a proposed housing development aimed at addressing local homeownership needs. The project, led by Blue Nest, seeks to create workforce housing in an area that has seen limited residential options.

Several residents spoke passionately about the importance of this development. Bessie Brown, a local resident and volunteer, highlighted the program's potential to help families, including her own, achieve homeownership. "I want to leave something for my children and grandchildren," she stated, emphasizing the community's desire for accessible housing options.

Mary Waters raised concerns about the project's location, noting that it is situated in an agricultural area with limited access to public transportation. She questioned the necessity of adding more housing without adequate infrastructure, such as police and fire services, which have been delayed in development. Waters urged the board to consider these factors before moving forward.

Despite some reservations, other community members expressed their support for the project, citing the need for affordable housing solutions. La Portia Stewart and Claire Sturtevant both shared personal stories about the challenges of rising rental costs and the importance of keeping families together in the community.

The developers responded to concerns by committing to invest $9.5 million in sanitary sewer and water infrastructure to support the new homes. They emphasized that the project aligns with the county's goals for urban development and workforce housing.

As the meeting concluded, the board was urged to approve the application, reflecting a community eager for progress in addressing housing shortages. The outcome of this proposal could significantly impact local families seeking stable and affordable living conditions in Miami-Dade County.