Officials with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District today held a ribbon-cutting at the new $79.6 million Villas at Titusville housing community, formerly known as Loveman Village.

The new apartments look like those found at upscale complexes. The new, fresh look contrasts sharply to the old barrack-style apartments that once stood there. Some of the old units are still being demolished.

HABD worked with Hollyhand Development, the City of Birmingham, the Alabama Housing Finance Authority and BBVA Bank to redevelop the property.

“Hollyhand Development is committed to quality affordable housing. We are honored to be a partner in the redevelopment of Loveman Village, which is a positive step towards the transformation of the Titusville neighborhood,” said Marcella Roberts, vice president of development at Hollyhand Development.

The ribbon-cutting marked the completion of the first phase and involved 100 units. There will be 164 units, a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.

Loveman Village was built in 1950 and consisted of about 500 units. While there will be fewer units at the redeveloped site, HABD officials say the design will make the community safer and more secure.

The Villas at Titusville will also have two community centers, an early childhood development center, playgrounds and green space. Construction of one of the community centers is complete.

Residents have already started moving in.

Residents can also participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program, which helps residents move out of public housing through better jobs, higher education and helping them become homeowners.

“The mission of the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District expands beyond providing housing for families,” said HABD President and CEO Michael Lundy. “We strive to give our residents the tools to succeed on their own so that they can eventually own their own homes. Because as beautiful as the Villas at Titusville is, it is meant to serve as a way station, not a permanent destination. When families can succeed on their own, we all win.”

The second phase of construction begins in 2020.