Illinois Housing Development Authority
IHDA’s Strong Communities Program – Vermilion County
The Illinois Housing Development Authority’s (IHDA) Strong Communities Program was created in August 2020 through the Rebuild Illinois capital plan to support affordable housing and community revitalization efforts throughout the state. In this video, see how the program is making an impact in Vermilion County following the significant increase of vacant and abandoned properties throughout the region.
By distributing grants of $250,000 to counties, municipalities, and land banks, IHDA’s Strong Communities Program is helping to transform vacant properties into productive, taxable homes that support Illinois residents and the communities they call home.
Currently, an average individual abandoned house:
- Contributes $0 in tax revenue
- Costs taxpayers $2,000-$3,000 per year in property maintenance
- Decreases neighboring property values by up to 15%
- Contributes to an increase in crime
- Burdens municipalities with costs of up to $15,000 to demolish property structures
Through IHDA’s programs, funds aim to address these challenges, support future community investment, and increase the quality of life for residents throughout Illinois.