Camden officials launch renovation of affordable housing development

Camden County Freeholder Susan Shin Angulo was scheduled to join other officials and community leaders in Camden April 26 for a ceremony at the site of Cooper Plaza Townhomes, an affordable housing community that is being preserved and renovated.

The work is being carried out by The Michaels Organization in partnership with Camden and is part of Michaels’ commitment to the city’s overall revitalization. Michaels works in residential real estate, offering development, property management, construction and finance services. The company serves 145,000 residents in more than 400 communities nationwide.

“The expansion of quality, affordable housing in the city will immediately improve the quality of life for residents living in, and around, these units,” Shin Angulo said. “By rebuilding neighborhoods, and preserving existing communities, we can ensure that Camden’s rapid expansion benefits its longtime residents as well as its new tenants. This is a vital component to the revitalization effort taking place all across the city.”

The $14 million preservation of the 64 townhomes includes major upgrades, such as new HVAC systems, new roofs and windows, porch improvements, and the construction of drainage and waterproofing systems throughout the community.

Improvements will also include renovated kitchens and bathrooms and new luxury flooring throughout the homes.

Unoccupied units have been renovated first for residents to stay while their units are upgraded. All 64 townhomes will remain permanently affordable, serving households earning 80 percent or less of the area median income.