Seaford developments to change community

Today was groundbreaking as several funding partners got together to make changes to the run- down Meadowbridge apartment complex in Seaford.

This 108-unit complex has been serving low-income residents for over 40 years and is in dire need of some fixing up. 47 ABC witnessed construction fully underway as Seaford developers plan to turn this 108-unit complex into an 104 two-bedroom unit complex with a community center.

“This is huge, it’s huge! Anytime you can revitalize an area, the residents that are there take a great amount of pride in that,” said Tricia Newcomer, Seaford’s Economic Developer who shares the same amount of excitement for the upcoming changes.

There are four buildings that will all be renovated- one at a time. The current residents will take turns being moved offsite to other low-income housing during the 18-month process.

Deleware Valley’s development group tells 47 ABC that once the renovations are complete, there will be a strict screening process for residents that want to move back into the newly polished units.

“Lease is going  to be enforced so, there’s just a whole series of things that will be looked at before people are allowed to move in. If there’s a felony conviction in the background of a resident, that really would preclude them from living here,” said Glen Worgan who is an active part of the development team.

According to Seaford Police, Meadowbridge apartments has had 160 calls for service in the last year. Other area complexes have had about 75.

We spoke to a Meadowbrooke resident who said she has been ready for the change and can’t wait to move into her new unit.

Community members are hoping this change will serve as a catalyst for other new development projects and hope someone will be up for the challenge.