Builders across the country are joining forces with Habitat for Humanity and the American Iron and Steel Institute(AISI) to build Jordan Commons, a model community of energy efficient, steel framed homes in the Homestead are of Florida for victims of Hurricane Andrew. With the National Association of Home Builders training these volunteers in steel-framed construction techniques, the project offers builders and subcontractors a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience while providing affordable housing for Homestead residents.
The goal of the project, which is scheduled to be completed in 1997, is to develop an energy-efficient and sustainable community that will serve as a model for affordable and energy conscious construction in South Florida. The size and scope of the project will allow the use of the energy-efficient technology and design methodologies currently available only in high-end housing developments. Emphasis is being placed on building houses that will average 50 percent less on energy costs. the two to four bedroom homes will incorporate energy saving features such as low flow shower heads, efficient air conditioners and solar water heaters provided through a $100,000 contribution from the State of Florida.
NAHB is soliciting builders and contractors for on-site training sessions in steel-framed construction. Sessions have been scheduled through the end of 1995. Members of AISI will provide the steel framing, fasteners, tools, engineering, training and roofing for the project. The inherent qualities of steel-- it's durability, environmental friendliness, flexibility in design, speed of construction, overall cost efficiency and resistance to sever weather conditions--will be well suited for the Jordan Commons project.
Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit, ecumenical housing organization that builds affordable housing to serve low income families. When Hurricane Andrew devistated the community of South Dade County in August 1992, Homestead Habitat for Humanity, the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity International, joined forces with members of the scientific, educational, civic and business communities. Their goal was to rebuild houses and lives devastated by Hurricane Andrew. Also, "Cool Communities," a program of American Forest and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, has made a commitment to help secure materials for landscaping that will help cool the community by creating a huge tree canopy covering a majority of the site, together with reflective building surfaces for all the roofs, which will be used to cut electricity use.
The Jordan community will span more than 40 acres and is based on a quadrant system with a central common area. The heart of the development includes a day-care center funded by private and public donations, a family service center, home and family classes and most importantly, home ownership. A small community store, a gymnasium, outdoor soccer and baseball fields and a basketball court also will be included.
Besides being the first Habitat project of its kind, what sets Jordan Commons apart from any other affordable housing project is its emphasis on the traditional neighborhood concept. They aren't just isolated houses being built. The group is creating identifiable neighborhoods where people can live together, feel safe and enhance their sense of community pride.
May not be used without written permission from The Home Builders Association of Northwest Florida.