Titusville's $28 Million Forest Glen: A Beacon of Affordable Housing!

Titusville's $28 Million Forest Glen: A Beacon of Affordable Housing!

In a significant step towards addressing the affordable housing crisis, Space Coast Daily reports that construction has kicked off on Forest Glen, a $28 million affordable housing community in Titusville, Florida. This new development aims to provide homes for those in desperate need, with plans for 80 affordable units—72 one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom homes.

Rents will be set between $750 and $1,350 per month, targeting residents who earn at or below 40% to 60% of the area median income (AMI). This joint initiative, the second for Housing Trust Group in Titusville and their third with HFH Supportive Housing, underscores the growing demand for affordable living options, particularly for seniors. Did you know that one in three unhoused individuals in Brevard County is 60 or older?

Community Features and Support Services

Nestled at 2001 South Street, Forest Glen isn’t just about brick and mortar. The community is designed to be a hub of activity and relaxation, boasting amenities like a multipurpose clubhouse, fitness center, luxury pool, bocce ball court, BBQ grill stations, and even a dog park. Residents will also benefit from a range of supportive services, including weekly check-ins, social and wellness events, and a solid financial management program.

The funding for this ambitious project comes through a combination of sources, including $23.6 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, a $22 million construction loan from TD Bank, and a $6.8 million permanent loan from Grandbridge Real Estate Capital. It’s a collaborative effort that shows a good hand in tackling the housing issue.

Broader Context: Housing Needs in Brevard County

In the wider landscape of affordable housing, Brevard County receives crucial federal grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through programs like the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and the HOME Investments Partnership (HOME) Program. These initiatives aim to lend a helping hand to low and moderate-income residents across the County.

Each municipality, including Cocoa, Melbourne, and Palm Bay, collaborates in the Brevard HOME Consortium to distribute these funds effectively. If you’re curious about the plans for the coming fiscal year, the 2025-2026 Action Plan prioritizes and allocates CDBG and HOME funds, and the public has been invited to inform and discuss these priorities.

Current Housing Landscape

According to HUD Housing Network, as of August 2025, there are 60 affordable housing units available throughout Brevard County. The area is served by four local housing authorities, providing an array of options for low-income families and individuals:

As residents grapple with rising rents and limited options, understanding fair market rents becomes crucial. In Brevard County, fair market rents vary, with studios averaging around $1,034 and three-bedroom units soaring to $1,938. Inevitably, each housing authority operates its own system, with tenants often covering a portion of rent while assistance is provided for the remainder.

The situation is fluid; regular checks with local housing authorities are advisable for the latest updates on unit availability and waiting lists. With initiatives like Forest Glen underway, there’s certainly something to be said for our community’s commitment to making affordable housing more accessible. Let’s look forward to seeing how this and similar projects continue to unfold in the future!