From staff reports

One of Albert Lea’s most visible efforts to improve housing opportunities in the city will have its grand opening next week.

Thursday, June 21, 2001

One of Albert Lea’s most visible efforts to improve housing opportunities in the city will have its grand opening next week.

The new Pickerel Lake Townhomes, located on Albert Lea’s south end just off Hwy. 69, will host a ribbon cutting and grand opening Friday, June 29 at 11 a.m. The multi-family housing development is the result of a partnership between the city, Newbury Development of Des Moines and Alliant Energy’s affordable housing subsidiary Heartland Properties as well as a number of state housing and economic development agencies.

According to Albert Lea Mayor Bob Haukoos, the $2.2 million project is an example of the kind of projects the city will continue to support to improve housing. Efforts to improve the city’s business climate depend on housing, he said.

&uot;We’re going to be bringing more business and industry to the city – that’s what we’re working on – and we’re going to need affordable housing for the working person,&uot; Haukoos said.

According to Jim Levy, president of Newbury Development, the development’s 24 units, which include garages and a playground, are already full with a waiting list of more interested families. He credits the success of the development to an excellent collaborative effort.

&uot;This new apartment community is an excellent example of what can be achieved when city, state and private entities work hand in hand,&uot; Levy said.