NEW LO-COST HOUSING PROJECT STARTS AT CAIRO

CAIRO, Ill. -- A a new multifamily housing unit is under construction here.

Little Egypt Apartments, owner and agent for Little Egypt Housing Development Corp. is building a 17-unit apartment at 18th and Poplar in Cairo. Each apartment will have two bedrooms.

The project is being developed for low-income families. A number of organizations have joined to make the $960,970 project possible.

Farmers Home Administration is providing rental assistance along with some financing; the Housing Assistance Council is providing technical assistance and some money; and the Illinois Housing Development Authority is providing a grant to supplement a portion the cost of the project.

Included in the project will be a courtyard, playground and laundry facilities.

Each unit will be equipped with a patio, central air conditioning and heating, and appliances.

"The project will provide a big boost to our area," said James Wilson. "It will provide much-needed housing and it will result in about $26,000 each year in property taxes to the city."