HUD provides critical funding for live/work development in Orange, New Jersey

HUD New Jersey Field Office Director Maria Maio-Messano speaks at the grand opening of the Kelli Copeland Lofts in Orange, New Jersey.

HUD New Jersey Field Office Director Maria Maio-Messano delivered remarks at the grand opening of the Kelli Copeland Lofts, a mixed-use building comprised of eight live/work lofts for artists in Orange, New Jersey. The building, a cooperative arts facility, is complete with artist studios for painting, jewelry, and printmaking; as well as meeting spaces for workshops and events. The building was named in honor of a member of the HANDS, Inc. family, the non-profit organization that has been transforming Orange into a thriving artist's haven. Kelli Copeland's family participated in the dedication.

HUD provided $1.9 million in HOME Program funds from Essex County and the State of New Jersey, as well as Economic Development Initiative (EDI) funds totaling $196,000.

The Kelli Copeland Lofts ribbon cutting was part of the 10 year celebration of Valley Art's District revitalization. Construction has just begun to transform the historic former Berg Hat Factory into Hat City Lofts, with 32 residences and 5400 sq. ft. of commercial art space. These sites are being developed by HANDS, Inc. and Valley Arts, Inc. Other speakers included Orange Mayor Dwayne Warren and NJ Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency Executive Director Anthony Marchetta.

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