Construction on a blighted building in a Fresno neighborhood is giving hope to residents

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Construction work in a Fresno neighborhood, north of downtown, has lifted spirits among those who live there.

The facelift at a 22 unit apartment complex just north of Dickey Playground represents rebirth in the Lowell neighborhood. Residents like Randy White said the complex used to be a magnet for crime.

"This complex was a source for high calls of police service, prostitution, drugs, gangs."

"This place has contributed to the blight, fear, and destruction of the Lowell neighborhood for so many years," said Esther Delahay, Lowell CDC.

But the once blighted building now serves as a source of pride for the area, because it will soon offer affordable housing for families.

The Fresno Housing Authority took the lead on the renovation project.

"This is a place of hope, and it will be a place of revitalization and restoration," said Ashley Swearengin, Fresno Mayor.

Just a block away from that apartment complex work is being done on a project which will provide eight three-bedroom units in the Lowell neighborhood.

"Now what was a seriously blighted community, has become again a symbol of what's possible in a neighborhood. So us as neighbors-- we're thrilled," said White.

They believe the complexes will dramatically alter the neighborhood.