Cleanup kicks off neighborhood revitalization

On a Saturday in July of 2009, the Brockton Housing Authority and Building a Better Brockton organized a neighborhood cleanup to kick off the start of our City of Brockton Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP1) Grant

The $1.2 million grant was awarded to the BHA in order to transform blighted neighborhoods littered with foreclosed and abandoned properties. The goal going forward is to renew neighborhoods by purchasing and renovating 12 affordable residential rental units. The BHA and BBB selected the Manning Tower, Highland and Newbury Street area to start this aggressive project. The cleanup in this area was a tremendous success. More than 75 volunteers participated in the day-long event that covered a three-block area. Four 30-yard dumpsters were filled with debris from the area when the project was completed.

Many City leaders and store owners also played key roles in the cleanup. The Home Depot of Brockton provided store employees who helped out, and also donated tools and equipment. George's Café and White's Pastry Shop provided lunch for the volunteers.

Since our intentions for this neighborhood have been published and demonstrated, contractors and landlords have begun to invest money here with the result that four additional buildings are currently under renovation.