This groundbreaking was years in the making, and worth the wait.

The vision for these homes began back in 2019. Then came the global pandemic. Plans slowed, costs climbed, and progress came to a halt. But the need for safe, affordable housing in Woodlawn never went away.

When the world opened back up, our team went back to work. Staff members Joe Ayers and Leigh Hancock re-engaged every partner and renegotiated every detail. Their persistence ensured the project stayed alive. And in many ways, the delay brought an unexpected silver lining. With time came new opportunities for support. The City of Birmingham and the Alabama Housing Finance Authority stepped in with additional resources, strengthening the project for the future.

Last week, that persistence paid off. More than 100 neighbors, stakeholders, elected officials, business leaders, and nonprofit partners gathered, some traveling from as far as Huntsville, to witness the groundbreaking at The Cottages on Georgia Road. What could have been just another ceremony became a true community celebration.

“This groundbreaking represents more than the start of construction. It’s the beginning of new possibilities for families in Woodlawn. We are deeply grateful to our partners who share our vision of creating thriving, connected communities.”

— Mashonda S. Taylor, President & CEO, Woodlawn United

This milestone was made possible through the power of partnership. Together with Navigate Affordable Housing Partners, the Alabama Housing Finance Authority, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District, the City of Birmingham, SouthState Bank, the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, Syms Contractors, Dynamic Civil Solutions, and Cohen Carnaggio Reynolds, we are building toward a vision where every resident has access to safe, affordable housing and a true sense of belonging.

The Cottages are more than buildings. They represent stability for families, opportunity for growth, and a future where Woodlawn continues to thrive. What began as plans on paper is now a living promise, a promise that together, we can create homes that nurture both people and community.