GAINESVILLE - While it was quiet and calm Monday afternoon, Habitat for Humanity of Hall County officials expect Copper Glen subdivision to be bustling with volunteers next month.
The development, situated off of Candler Highway, just off Baker Road, involves about 40 acres of property, donated to the group. It's the first such multi-lot property being developed by Habitat of Hall.
While it's a first in our area, it's not all that uncommon for Habitat elsewhere.
"I know in Atlanta, they've done a couple of separate subdivisions, and other affiliates across the country have done subdivisions as well," Habitat for Humanity of Hall County Associate Executive Director Tim Williams said.
Williams, a former builder himself, also serves as building director for Habitat of Hall.
The approximately 40 acres of land is phase three of the Copper Glen development. Phase one and two are complete. Williams said an investor purchased the property.
"Since the market didn't come back, he decided to donate it to Habitat. He contacted us. We came out and looked at the property. It's a beautiful piece of property. (We're) really excited about it," Williams said.
The grading and road work for the development were completed in 2006, and phase three has sat empty since.
Williams said Habitat will develop all 21 homes in the development. The wooded subdivision with creeks will also include three natural parks for future homeowners .
He said Habitat officials are hoping to start work on the actual homes next month.
"We're waiting on final plat approvals. As the infrastructure is complete, then the county will bill a sign off on it. We'll go forward from there," Williams said.
While the development will eventually include 21 houses, Williams said it won't stop the organization from seeking and building homes in all parts of the county.
The latest activity Monday afternoon involved electric utility work.
Last week, the Up With People performance group volunteered in the subdivision, starting work on a walking trail and a community garden.
Habitat was founded in 1978 by Millard and Linda Fuller. The Fullers wanted to address poverty housing on a global scale through “partnership housing” which is centered on qualified families working side-by-side with volunteers to build simple, decent houses, according to the habitat website.
Hall County's affiliate began in 1989.
