Roy Nash, president and CEO of NeighborWorks Waco, expressed hope this is the first of several modular duplexes Clayton will build in conjunction with his organization and Louisville, KY-based Next Step, which seeks a network of builders to help replace two million energy-inefficient homes, as well as organizations that can offer low-cost financing.
Clayton Homes’ Steve Brady says CEO Kevin Clayton has a longstanding relationship with Next Step and is supportive of the non-profit’s mission.
CEO Chris Nicely of Next Step said his organization is acting as a liaison between Clayton and Waco’s NeighborWorks. “We see this effort as one that will produce high-quality and energy-efficient housing for those who need it most,” Nicely said. Families that lease space in the duplex may later decide to own their unit.
Work crews are expected to have the duplex ready for a public showing around mid-June. There are more vacant lots near Waco’s inner city that are also suitable as sites for housing for low-to middle-income residents.
Nash said NeighborWorks and Next Step will split a Clayton rebate worth about $12,000 as partners in the project.
Stacey Epperson, president of Next Step, said, “We believe factory-built homes are the answer to America’s growing affordable housing crisis. The right-sized home at the right price allows NeighborWorks Waco and other nonprofits to serve more deserving families. We are happy to be a part of the solution.” ##
(Photo credit: wacotrib/Jerry Larson–Steve Fulton of Clayton Homes in front of one of the duplexes)
