The Public Housing Act of 1937 was built off the Housing Act 1934. It was created by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). To reduce the flood of bank foreclosures on home ownership that had been de-stabilized due to the Great Depression.
The public housing act of 1937 focused on the construction of public housing which was to replenish the depleted national rental housing stock. Also to provide decent, affordable and safe housing for low-income families. The initial goal of public housing was to be a temporary solution that would assist low-income families eventually move into the middle class. However, over the years public housing has shifted from its original goal to becoming a more permanent housing solution which is often the last resort for many low-income families and individuals.
The Public Housing Act of 1937 established the U.S. Housing Agency that facilitated the construction of government owned housing developments.
Throughout the country public housing agencies were federally funded to construct and develop affordable housing. States could decide whether they wanted to create affordable housing or not. Local authorities such as the Asbury Park Housing Authority have the ability to choose elements of their public housing such as design, location and requirements for who could live in the development.
September 9, 1965 The Housing and Urban Development Act created HUD as a cabinet-level agency funded by Congressional appropriations.
In 1974 the Housing Choice Vouchers, a federal program commonly known as the Section 8 program, was designed to help low-income families, the elderly and the disabled afford safe and sanitary housing in the private market.
Asbury Park Housing Authority offers public housing, and one can make an application to receive a Section 8 voucher. All participants must meet income guidelines which involve having a total family income below 50% of the area median income, meeting other eligibility requirements and being selected by the Asbury Park Housing Authority. Once your application has been approved you will be given a voucher. Participants have the option of choosing their own housing including single family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The landlord who agrees to the conditions of the contract with HUD must meet certain standards and allow for inspections to ensure their properties meet HUD’s requirements. After both parties agree the Section 8 participant will receive the voucher that covers a portion of their rent, and the tenant pays the balance. If the tenant complies with the program there is no limit on how long they can reside in Section 8 housing.
Asbury Park Housing Authority owns and operates several public housing buildings:
- Asbury Park Village, 2 Atkins Ave, has 126 family units
- Washington Village, 1259 Washington Ave. has 59 family units
- Lincoln Village, at Memorial Drive & Langford Street has 63 family units.
Asbury Park Housing Authority also provides public housing for seniors and disabled individuals:
- Comstock Court,1018 First Ave has 50 units for seniors and disabled
- Lumley Homes, A/B 1004 Comstock Street & 1025 Second Avenue with 60 units for seniors and disabled
- Robinson Towers, 10001/2 3rd Avenue with 105 units for seniors and disabled
These public housing units are owned by the Asbury Park Housing Authority, which is funded by the federal government. Public housing income limits are based on a percentage of the area median income. Eligibility is determined by these categories: very low-income (at or below 30% AMI), low income at or (below 50% of area median income,) and moderate-income at or below (80% of area median income.)
The Asbury Park Housing Authority has a board of directors officially known as the Board of Commissioners. They oversee the operations and management of the APHA. The members are appointed by the Mayor and Council with set term limits.
Asbury Park Housing Authority has open public monthly meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 6 pm. Their meetings are conducted at the Robinson Towers, 1000 1/2 Third Ave at 6pm.
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