Perth Amboy 'focused on rebuilding neighborhoods'. Here's how

PERTH AMBOY – Work is set to begin on the construction of two single-family homes on Pearl Place, with plans for new families to move in next year.

The project is part of a partnership between Morris Habitat for Humanity and the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Authority (PARA) which sold the two 25-feet by 100 feet lots.

“Our mission is not just about redeveloping large swaths of underused property,” said Tashilee Vazquez, PARA executive director. “We are focused on rebuilding neighborhoods and looking for all opportunities. On this small parcel, we can fulfill homeownership for two families. This is a tremendous investment in Perth Amboy and an ideal fit for our mission.”

PARA’s agreement allows for a partnership between Morris Habitat and the Perth Amboy Redevelopment Team for Neighborhood Enterprise and Revitalization (PARTNER), a nonprofit that creates housing and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents. Morris Habitat and PARTNER are serving as the project redevelopers.

Groundbreaking is expected to occur this summer, according to Liz DeCoursey, Morris Habitat CEO.

The three-bedroom homes will be sold to families who meet low-income guidelines. The new residents must show the ability to pay an affordable mortgage, property taxes, utilities, and all other expenses related to homeownership.

More: How homeownership is becoming a reality for two families in Perth Amboy

The homeowner selection process will be random, but preferences will be given to veterans and current Perth Amboy Housing Authority residents. Anyone interested in applying for a home should contact Morris Habitat.

The Pearl Place project is Morris Habitat's latest venture in Perth Amboy. The nonprofit has been increasing its footprint in Middlesex County since taking over the territory in 2020. Homes have been completed at 440 Lawrie St. and 662 Cortland St., while others are now under construction at 363 Inslee St. and 364 Garretson Ave.

Morris Habitat has special standards for the homes it builds. All must be designed as “user friendly” as possible, with Energy Star appliances, maintenance-free materials, a single garage, handicap accessibility, the ability to use side and rear yards for recreation, and ample storage space. All homes are for sale; there are no rentals.

“We are excited to see Morris Habitat transform unused and neglected spaces into valuable assets for our residents, thereby enhancing the neighborhoods of Perth Amboy,” said Mayor Helmin Caba. “We look forward to working closely with all of our redevelopment partners to turn our collective vision for a rejuvenated city into reality.”

More: Morris Habitat for Humanity celebrates new Old Bridge home

DeCoursey said Morris Habitat also has plans to serve at least 400 families over the next three years through its home repair and aging-in-place programs. Key team members are PARTNER and the Jewish Renaissance Foundation, leveraging grants to assist residents in two Perth Amboy neighborhoods.

In addition, Morris Habitat is set to begin building 12 homes in Old Bridge, at 200 Laurence Parkway.

Email: srussell@gannettnj.com

Suzanne Russell is a breaking news reporter for MyCentralJersey.com covering crime, courts and other mayhem. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Perth Amboy NJ 'focused on rebuilding neighborhoods'. Here's how