A new affordable housing option has emerged in Ybor City, Florida, with the opening of the Casa Maceo Apartments. The complex, consisting of ten units, was officially unveiled on March 15, 2023. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between local developers and the City of Tampa, which provided a significant financial boost through a $3 million grant from a state affordable housing program.
Mayor Jane Castor expressed her pride in the project, emphasizing the importance of local investment in community development. “I could not be prouder of what Shacres Development has accomplished here in Ybor City. Dontavious Pittman, Ponce McNeal, and their team are homegrown talent, born and raised right here in Tampa,” she stated. “This development is more than just new housing — it’s a testament to what happens when local visionaries invest in their own community to make Tampa a place where everyone can afford to live and thrive.”
The Casa Maceo Apartments are strategically located on Columbus Drive, which marks the boundary between East Tampa and Ybor City. The complex will feature three-bedroom, two-bathroom units, specifically designed for families earning 80% or less of the area’s median income. For example, a family of four earning approximately $83,000 annually would qualify for these units.
According to the City of Tampa, the new housing complex aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the region. Of the ten units, six will be available for families earning 50% of the area median income (AMI) and below, while four units will cater to those at 80% AMI and below. This distribution reflects an effort to support a diverse range of income levels within the community.
The Casa Maceo Apartments represent a significant step toward enhancing housing opportunities in Tampa. As the demand for affordable housing continues to rise, developments like this one play a crucial role in ensuring that residents have access to safe and affordable living spaces. With the partnership of local leaders and organizations, the project not only provides housing but also promotes community growth and stability.
