By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
As North Alabama continues to experience rapid population growth, a new affordable housing development in Athens aims to meet rising demand while supporting working families across the region.
Regions Bank, in collaboration with Hall Group, LLC, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of The Grove at South Jefferson, a 120-unit apartment community set to begin construction in early 2026. The development will include five three-story buildings and feature amenities such as a business center, central laundry facility, clubhouse, fitness center, pet park, picnic areas, playground, and swimming pool.
The project marks a milestone as the first development closed under Alabama’s new State Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program. Established in 2024 as part of the “Working for Alabama” legislative package championed by Gov. Kay Ivey, the program complements federal and state Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to expand workforce and affordable housing options.
Under the agreement, rental rates at The Grove at South Jefferson will be capped for qualifying residents, with overall rental restrictions averaging 60% of Area Median Income (AMI). According to federal data, the AMI for a family of four in the Huntsville metro area is $115,500. Apartments will serve families earning 50%, 60%, and 80% of AMI, broadening access for essential workers such as teachers, healthcare professionals, and law enforcement officers.
In addition to affordable rents, the development will offer childcare assistance opportunities for tenants, further supporting working families.
Regions Affordable Housing is providing approximately $25.6 million in equity financing, along with bridge and construction loans to support the project.
Developers say The Grove at South Jefferson represents both an investment in housing stability and a commitment to sustaining economic growth across the Huntsville metro area.
