(La Porte, IN) - Construction of more affordable housing in La Porte has moved closer to a ground breaking.

 

 

A $1 million state grant was accepted Tuesday by the city’s Board of Public Works & Safety to help fund the cost of construction and keep the homes within an affordable price range.

 

Most of the homes by developer, Advantix, will be built at the former Sacred Heart Church property on Bach St. and the nearby old Washington school site.  The remaining homes will go up on some of the land at Scott Field.

 

City Planner Craig Phillips said there will be more than 40 new homes at the three sites, combined, in what he estimated to be about a $15 million total investment. Phillips said construction will begin late this year or next year with demolition of the old church structure happening this summer.

 

Board member Mark Kosior said he understands some people might not be happy about demolishing the old church.  Kosior said he also has sentimental feelings since he used to attend the church but it’s fallen into disrepair and needs to come down.

 

“It’s challenging and it’s sad but it’s something we do need to do,” he said.