The Southtown Council Environment and Public Works Committee selected Blue Hills Community Services (BHCS). BHCS has maintained a commitment to communities in the urban core of KC for 32 years and plays a vital role in assuring that the many social, physical, and infrastructure needs of the community can be met. “We offer solutions that support the positive development of communities by stabilizing neighborhoods and improving residents’ lives,” states Joanne Bussinger, BHCS Executive Director.
In 2004, BHCS began implementing a “block-by-block” housing strategy in the Blue Hills neighborhood which included multiple tools. To date, BHCS has overseen a dozen renovated or newly constructed single-family homes in a three block area near 48th and Euclid; about $1.5 million has been invested in this area; and BHCS’ On the House home repair program is repairing owner occupied homes near the newly constructed and renovated homes. Ten newly constructed homes totaling $1.7 million are planned over the next two years near 49th and Olive/Park.
Collaborating with neighbors, expanding the availability of quality affordable housing, and preserving the existing housing stock is a crucial aspect of building health urban communities. BHCS, using the block-by-block approach, is rebuilding forgotten neighborhoods with new single family occupants. They are bringing hope and pride of ownership back to the urban core!
Southtown extends their thanks and congratulations to Blue Hills Community Services for the making Southtown Sparkle!