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Jan. 2025: Exciting Progress on HOPE Heights Affordable Housing Development

Writer's picture: Chelsey MingoneChelsey Mingone

Red Wing, MN — January 2025 — Goodhue County Habitat for Humanity (GCHFH) is excited to share the latest updates on our largest and most impactful affordable housing project to date: the HOPE Heights development.

HOPE Heights Development Site - Formerly St. John's Hospital
HOPE Heights Development Site - Formerly St. John's Hospital

Located on a 5-acre site formerly home to St. John’s Hospital, HOPE Heights represents a significant step forward in addressing the Red Wing community's growing need for affordable homeownership opportunities.


Once complete, this transformative project will create 26 new affordable workforce homes to Red Wing, providing local families with safe, stable housing and building a stronger, more vibrant community. This thoughtfully planned neighborhood will help local families achieve the dream of homeownership through Habitat’s unique model—offering no down payment and low-interest mortgages, with homeowners contributing 200 hours of sweat equity to help build their future homes.


HOPE Heights - Site Concept Map
HOPE Heights - Site Concept Map

Building a Foundation for Community Growth

Before we can begin home construction, critical infrastructure work must be completed to ensure the long-term success of the neighborhood. This includes:

  • Removing existing pavement from the former hospital site.

  • Adding necessary fill to manage stormwater runoff and improve accessibility.

  • Constructing a new alleyway connecting Minnesota and Washington Streets to minimize traffic impact, ease utility connections, and provide safe garage access for future homeowners.

  • Upgrading curbs and gutters and adding new parking spaces along 4th Street.


These essential preparations reflect our commitment to creating a safe, accessible, and sustainable neighborhood for generations to come.


Why HOPE Heights Matters

Goodhue County and Red Wing face increasing demand for affordable housing due to population growth, an aging population, rising interest rates, and a significant portion of residents living near or below the poverty line. By adding 26 new homes, HOPE Heights will:

  • Help families build financial stability and generational wealth.

  • Reduce commuting times for local workers, opening more housing opportunities for others.

  • Support the local economy by increasing the tax base and strengthening the workforce.


The community response to HOPE Heights has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are grateful for the support and encouragement we've received from residents, businesses, and city leaders.


Project Timeline and Next Steps

Engineering plans for HOPE Heights are nearing completion, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal standards. We anticipate infrastructure development to begin in 2025. Thanks to a partnership with the City of Red Wing, GCHFH is pursuing critical funding through the Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grant program, with the potential to secure up to $500,000 in support.


Additionally, we are exploring opportunities for community members, businesses, and organizations to join us as cornerstone supporters of this transformative project. Together, we can bring HOPE Heights to life and create lasting change for families in need. A decision regarding a capital campaign will be made soon.


Our goal is to begin construction on our first twin-home in 2025, with plans to build at least three new homes annually until all 26 homes are complete. This steady, community-driven approach allows us to engage volunteers, partner families, and supporters every step of the way, fostering a neighborhood built on connection and shared purpose.


Join Us in Building HOPE Heights

As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite the community to stay involved and support this impactful project. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, every contribution brings us closer to making HOPE Heights a reality.


Follow us on social media for the latest updates about HOPE Heights and how you can get involved.

Comentários


Goodhue County

Habitat for Humanity, Inc

614 Plum St. Red Wing MN, 55066

Email: info@gchabitat.org 

Tel: 651-327-2195

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