Taft Homes

The Taft Homes, named after Ohio senator Robert A Taft, were originally built in 1952 as a temporary means of shelter for veterans returning from the Korean War.^[1][2] The buildings soon transitioned to low income housing and during the 1960s and 70s the housing project saw multiple violent riots. In 1968 ten police officers and a reporter were wounded after a minor incident turned into a race riot that lasted for around 3 hours.^[3][4] A second major race riot occurred in 1970 after the police evicted two female residents from the Taft Homes; resulting in rioting that spread throughout other public housing projects in the city.^[5] In 1996 all 220 units in the complex underwent comprehensive rehabilitation efforts by the city; the units received new siding, flooring and plumbing in order to make the buildings more energy efficient.^[1] The renovation efforts also added, and updated parking, lighting, sidewalks as well as various landscaping work.^[1] During its modernization effort the Housing Authority decided to demolish the 15 buildings closest to the river, that were known for illicit activities.^[1] The United States Marine Corps, U.S. Navy Seabees and Illinois Air National Guard helped in the demolition effort.^[1]

Following the rehabilitation project of 1996 Peoria Public Housing decided to pursue a redevelopment of the units. The plan calls for a mixed income neighborhood, that could include some market rate homes, along the desirable Illinois River.^[1][6] The first development would begin along the shoreline, an area left vacant by the demolition of the 15 original buildings located at the site.^[1] Demolition of the current buildings would begin after the current residents find alternate housing options.^[6]

In 2019, ProPublica and The Southern Illinoisan reported that Taft Homes failed three of its five recent inspections.^[7][8][9] Residents reported issues with mold, maggots, cockroaches, water damage, exposed gas pipes, uncovered outlets, and other code violations.^{[7][10][11][12]} Police patrols of the area increased due to a high crime rate.^{[13][14][15][16][17]}

On October 7 2021, groundbreaking began for the new Providence Pointe development.^[18][19][20] The first phase of demolition was completed in September 2022 and construction for the new units began.^[21] The new development plans for 142 affordable housing units, from one to five bedrooms.^[21] Units will be completed in rolling sets of 50.^[21] Instead of the barracks-style of Taft Homes, Providence Pointe will include townhouses and modern single-level houses.^[18][22] Rent is based on income and family size, capped at 30% of adjusted gross income.^[23][24] The estimated development cost is $43.7 million.^[18]

The first residents moved into the new Providence Pointe units in September 2023.^[10][25][23] Three Taft buildings remain; the Providence Pointe completion target date is March 2024.^[10][23]