AUBURN — The City Council will meet Monday night to discuss what it describes as “groundbreaking” plans for a mixed-income housing development that will bring 100 units to New Auburn, according to a news release Friday afternoon.

The proposed Winter Oaks housing development includes construction of 48 single-family homes, 8 owner-occupied duplexes, and three multiunit apartment buildings.

“This forward-thinking project emphasizes the city’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community for its residents,” according to the release.

“This is a wonderful example of government working with private developers and community partners to create innovative, transformative projects that will enhance our housing choices,” said Auburn Mayor Jason J. Levesque. 

The initiative includes a grant application submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development, aimed at securing $9.5 million to cover critical infrastructure costs such as new roads, sidewalks and essential public utilities such as water, sewer and gas services for the Winter Oaks residential community. 

At Monday’s meeting, city officials plan to announce that Homes for All, represented by Fatuma Hussein and a team of experienced housing developers, will spearhead the project.

In addition to the city’s involvement, several partners have pledged their support for this initiative, including the Androscoggin Land Trust which will oversee the management of 25 acres of adjacent conservation land, providing residents with access to scenic hiking trails, as well as the YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston which pledges to establish a modern child care facility within the development, offering invaluable support to families and working parents.  

“As an advocate for a more equitable Maine and community, the Winter Oaks Housing Development reflects Auburn’s progress and our hard work towards improving our overall quality of life and building healthier and sustainable communities for everyone through housing and workforce,” Hussein said. “I’m excited to see how this project unfolds and begins to pave a new future for Auburn residents.”  

City officials say the project has garnered substantial letters of support from key stakeholders, including the Androscoggin Emergency Management Agency, Community Concepts Inc., the Maine State Housing Authority and Androscoggin Savings Bank.

“The City of Auburn is proud to usher in a new era of housing development that not only addresses the diverse needs of its residents but also reinforces its dedication to community growth and well-being,” according to the release.

The Auburn City Council workshop is at 5:30 p.m. Monday in Auburn Hall, 60 Court St. The meeting will also be broadcast live on the city’s YouTube channel:.

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