On July 11, Newark Office Director Diane Johnson joined Orange Mayor Dwayne Warren and Orange Housing Authority Executive Director Dr. Walter McNeil at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Dr. Walter G. Alexander Village development. The development replaced a distressed, crime-ridden public housing complex that was demolished in 2009 with a sustainable community for seniors and families. Ms. Johnson discussed how this new transit-oriented development is walking distance to downtown, close to major highways and train lines connecting to various job markets, and that local schools have been key partners in making this a sustainable community where children will receive the education they need to reach their full potential. She also remarked on other HUD assistance that has helped the neighborhood, including its designation as a Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) area, and the demolition nearby of the distressed Father Rasi Homes and creation of new housing on the site. The $29 million Alexander Village received about $2.4 million in HUD funding, and residents of the former development were provided with Section 8 vouchers. The site now consists of 48 affordable senior units and 66 family units. Of the family units, only 6 are under an Annual Contributions Contract (ACC). Project funding came from 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits through the Orange Housing Development Corporation. The new townhouse-style complex blends in architecturally with the rest of the neighborhood, has been designed to create a safer environment, and is very close to Orange Park