AUSTIN, Texas — Habitat for Humanity is set to begin construction on 25 affordable homes in Austin’s Whisper Valley community, located in East Travis County. The project, which kicks off tomorrow, is part of a larger initiative to honor Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter by eventually bringing 500 affordable houses and condos to the area. Thousands of volunteers are expected to participate in the five-day build.
“Our faith in ourselves, our faith in each other, and our faith in god. That’s what habitat means to me,” Former President Jimmy Carter said in a video played at Sunday’s project opening.
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Austin Habitat for Humanity CEO Michele Anderson emphasized the importance of home ownership.
“Our country was built on our families being able to work hard and buy a home.” She noted that the price range for the new homes and condos will be between $115,000 and $235,000, making them accessible to the community.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson highlighted the city’s progress in land use and regulation over the past three years. He said this is an effort to continue that trend.
“It helps us change the game,” Watson said. “What we’re able to do is not only build the houses, but we’re also able to create the focus.”
Anderson added that Habitat for Humanity plans to build 75 homes annually, with the long-term project expected to be completed in the next five to seven years.