Old Ruskin Motel Turns Into Affordable Housing For Low-Income Families

RUSKIN, FL — A rundown motel in Ruskin has been renovated into an affordable housing complex on U.S. Highway 41.

Hillsborough County and Catholic Charities officials will introduce the community to the affordable apartments, Las Villas, on Wednesday, a news release said.

"With rent and home prices rapidly rising across Florida and the country, governments, nonprofits, and housing advocates are finding creative solutions," county officials said. "The $2 million project to create Las Villas Apartments in Ruskin is the latest non-traditional effort to provide affordable housing."

Thirteen efficiency units were built that will be available for low-income residents to rent at below-market rates, officials said.

Combined funds from Hillsborough County, $1.5 million, and the Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, $500,000, purchased the property, according to the news release.

A blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony are scheduled at Las Villas Apartments, 1308 N. U.S. 41, Ruskin, on Wednesday at 10 a.m.

For more information on Hillsborough County affordable housing, visit HCFLGov.net/affordablehousing.