NeighborWorks® Revitalizes Lead Neighborhood

For over ten years two homes sat vacant on Washington Avenue in Lead.  The historic homes were beyond repair and a hazardous site for children and other residents.  In 2011, NeighborWorks®   Dakota Home Resources purchased both homes in an effort to continue to revitalize the neighborhood and create a new affordable home.

NeighborWorks®   has been assisting families with homeownership opportunities and revitalizing homes and neighborhoods for twenty years.  The Washington neighborhood has greatly benefited from NeighborWorks’®   mission.  Many of the residents on Washington Avenue have utilized NeighborWorks® programs to purchase or rehab their homes. 

In 2009, Lead resident, Joel Edgar purchased his home on Washington Avenue with assistance from NeighborWorks®    Dakota Home Resources and Dakota Land Trust.  His home was built on a vacant lot after the removal of a blighted structure.  Joel looked into buying an older home but, the rehab cost would have been a financial burden.  In Lead, the median house price is $126,500. Joel purchased his newly constructed home for $80,000.  His property was not only a more affordable option but improved the quality and appearance of his neighborhood.  Joel Edgar shared that he is excited to see how the new project will improve the neighborhood. ”I am excited to see a new home replace the old houses in our neighborhood.  

Cleaning up that area will improve the look of the neighborhood and help with the growth of Lead.”

NeighborWorks® plans to repeat the success of Joel’s home with the two Washington street lots.  NeighborWorks®    hired a local contractor to remove the dilapidated structures and clean up both lots. The lots will then be transformed into a site for a safe, decent and affordable home.   “One of the goals of the City of Lead is to encourage property improvement through either rehabilitation or, in this case, demolition and new construction.  A newly constructed home on this large, desirable lot will be very appealing, and with the assistance from NeighborWorks® , affordable.” City Administrator, Mike Stahl stated. 

 If you would like more information on the Washington street project or any of NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources programs, please contact Stephany at 578-1401 or visit us on the web at www.NeighborWorks dhr.org