Roanoke City aims to upgrade low-income public housing

Roanoke City aims to upgrade low-income public housing (Image 1) (Copyright by WSLS - All rights reserved)

ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Roanoke City wants to change the way you look at public housing. 

Some people say there is a negative stigma associated with low-income places like Melrose Towers and Lansdowne. The hope to make upgrades to those areas. 

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The Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority is applying for a grant up to $30 million. If they receive the federal money, they want to demolish close to 500 units and replace them with new and improved homes. 

For nearly two years staff worked with people who live there to develop the proposed transformation plan. They say it could make a big difference in the community's perception. 

"That allows us to do housing, put supportive services in place. And also allows us to make changes to the neighborhood. Infrastructure improvements, parks," said Desi Wynter, Roanoke Development and Housing Authority. 

Once again, this is just a proposed plan. The Housing Authority still has to secure the money. If the plan moves forward, the agency will help people find another home.