Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, alongside the Division of Housing and community partners, recently unveiled the sign for The Heights on Himes, an ambitious affordable housing development at the County-owned Prospect Center campus on Himes Avenue. The announcement included a partnership with the YMCA of Frederick County to launch an onsite Head Start center, which is expected to enhance the community’s access to essential services.
The Heights on Himes aims to provide nearly 150 affordable apartment homes and responds to findings from the County’s housing needs assessment. According to the assessment, nearly one in five households in Frederick County faces challenges related to housing affordability. The development seeks to utilize publicly owned land to expedite the creation of affordable housing options for residents across various income levels.
In addition to addressing housing needs, the project will tackle the significant financial burden of childcare. The onsite Head Start center is anticipated to serve approximately 88 children, with Frederick County Government aiding the YMCA in outfitting the facility to meet program requirements. Studies show that families in the area spend nearly 19% of their income on childcare, which is significantly higher than the federal affordability benchmark.
The Heights on Himes marks a significant step in the county’s efforts to connect affordable housing with essential services, including childcare and public transportation. This development will not only provide much-needed housing but will also transform the Prospect Center campus into a hub for government services, emergency preparedness, and community resources, further supporting the well-being of local families.
Read the original article at Frederick County Government