Residents Realize A Brighter Future

Dade Oaks transforms into to Hilltop Landings

Old Dade Oaks location was prone to flooding.

Brand new units in higher ground offer a new beginning for the tenants of Hilltop Landings.

Hilltop Landings is a 69-unit development located in Dade City, Florida. Before becoming Hilltop Landings, the property was known as Dade Oaks Apartments, developed by the Pasco County Housing Authority in 1978. Since its initial occupancy the property had a rental assistance contract with HUD to help low income tenants.

As time went by, challenges began. During the rainy seasons, several hundred sandbags were required to divert water flowing in to the units. Slab-on-grade construction, coupled with a location in the bottom of a drainage basin area resulted in on-going flooding issues. Over the years Dade Oaks deteriorated to a level that placed the affordable housing at risk.

In 2014, a plan was outlined to HUD to approve the relocation of the property and transfer of the rental assistance contract to approximately one mile away, to higher ground. Construction commenced in March 2015 and is nearing 100 percent completion. Dozens of ecstatic tenants waiting to move in to the brand new units attended a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held in May.

After years of frustration each time it rained, they are now celebrating the opportunity for a brighter future. The new development consists of 35 paired housing buildings with 14 one-bedroom, 23 two-bedroom, 17 three-bedroom, and 15 four-bedroom units; plus, a community room. Amenities also include a playground accessible to children with disabilities and Energy Star rated appliances.

Pasco County Housing Authority and development firm Gorman & Company obtained mixed financing for the project including a FHA mortgage leveraged with 4% Tax Credits, $3.2 million in HOME Funds from the Florida Housing Finance Corporation, and $1.75 million in subsidy funds from Pasco County.

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