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Affordable Housing in Grier Heights: A Study of LIHTC Impact on Neighborhood Demographics
CATEGORY
Affordable Housing
DATA
LIHTC Projects
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Population
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Affordable Housing
LIHTC Projects
Median Income
Racial Distributions
Population
Grier Heights, a neighborhood in Charlotte, North Carolina, demonstrates a significant presence of Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funded affordable housing. The neighborhood contains 327 total units in LIHTC funded projects, all of which are designated as low-income units. Based on the 2022 population of 3,227 and utilizing the national average household size, the estimated housing inventory for Grier Heights is approximately 1,236 units. The LIHTC funded affordable housing comprises about 26.4% of the neighborhood's estimated housing inventory, exceeding the target percentage of 15-20% for affordable housing stock in a well-balanced community.
The LIHTC program has invested $2,236,241 in project tax credits for affordable housing in Grier Heights. This equates to an average federal funding of approximately $6,838 per unit. The neighborhood has exhibited a long-term commitment to affordable housing, with projects dating back to 1987 when the Orange & Sandlewood project was completed. The most recent project with a known completion date is Randolph Hills, finished in 2011, indicating at least 24 years of affordable housing development in the area.
The 2000s experienced the most affordable housing activity, with two projects completed during this decade: Pinecrest Manor Apts in 2003 and Randolph Hills in 2011. The inventory of LIHTC funded units in Grier Heights includes 91 one-bedroom units, 195 two-bedroom units, and 3 three-bedroom units, providing a mix of housing options for various household sizes.
Over the past decade, Grier Heights has experienced demographic shifts. The population has grown from 3,073 in 2015 to 3,227 in 2022, indicating a modest increase in residents. The median income has fluctuated but shown an overall upward trend, rising from $15,870 in 2015 to $17,443 in 2022. This suggests a slight improvement in economic conditions for residents, although incomes remain relatively low.
Regarding racial distribution, the neighborhood has maintained a predominantly Black population, with an increase from 85% in 2015 to 88% in 2022. The White population has decreased from 8% to 3% during this period, while the Hispanic population has remained relatively stable at around 5%. These demographic trends suggest a continued need for affordable housing options in the neighborhood.
Grier Heights demonstrates a substantial commitment to affordable housing through its LIHTC funded projects. The neighborhood's 327 low-income units represent a significant portion of its estimated housing inventory, exceeding typical targets for affordable housing stock. The area has seen consistent development of affordable housing over more than two decades, with a focus on one and two-bedroom units. While there have been modest improvements in median income, the persistently low income levels and stable racial composition suggest an ongoing need for affordable housing options in Grier Heights. The LIHTC program has played a crucial role in addressing this need, providing a foundation for housing stability in the community.
