Haywood Habitat has broken ground on its most ambitious project in 31 years-building a 10 home affordable housing community in the Chestnut Park area of Waynesville. The location is within walking distance to retail centers, the library, downtown, grocery stores, and even includes a greenway connecting it to a town owned park. Like all Habitat projects, the homes are affordable not only because of donations, but because of volunteer help and the sweat equity future homeowners put into building their homes. Early supporters were instrumental in getting things started. "This project wouldn't have been possible without the generosity of David & Ann Eavenson, the property owners, who worked with us to price the property to make it a viable option for the Habitat program," said Jamye Sheppard, Haywood Habitat executive director. Another initial supporter for the project was Harrison Construction. The company cleared the land and is donating gravel for the project along with other support. The contribution from Harrison will lower the price of the homes by more than $10,000 each. Construction has started on the first two homes in the neighborhood. Additional homes will be started as funding for the project is secured. (Photo courtesy of The Mountaineer)
