13-03-2025
Sanford, Lee County chosen for affordable housing initiative
The City of Sanford has been selected by the University of North Carolina to participate in the 'Our State, Our Homes' program, an 18-month initiative to improve access to and availability of affordable housing.
The initiative is part of UNC's Carolina Across 100 project, which aims to 'enhance the quality of life for all people in the state' through meaningful partnerships.
The 'Our State, Our Homes' program will connect the S3 Housing Connect Taskforce and City of Sanford and Lee County staff with UNC's faculty, staff and students from various disciplines to examine affordable housing and develop a plan of action that suits the community's needs and resources.
'This program is provided at no cost to participants,' explained Tradell Adkins, city planner and liaison to S3. 'The only commitment required is our time and effort to determine best practices and identify strategies to address affordable housing needs in Sanford.'
Sanford/Lee County was among 14 community teams chosen to participate. The teams — made up of business, civic, education, nonprofit, faith-based and government entities — represent 22 North Carolina counties, each with their own unique challenges.
Sanford and Lee County represent Team 9: 'The Heart of the Carolinas,' a name that reflects its 'well-centered' location in the state.
'This program avoids a one-size-fits-all approach,' Adkins said. 'We will have access to real-time local housing data to tailor solutions specific to Sanford and Lee County.'
Along with City of Sanford and Lee County staff, Sanford's team includes Lee County Re-Entry Services, Trillium Health Resources and Brick Capital Community Development Corp. The cohort will participate directly in forums and sessions, and then share their training with local organizations to drive implementation.
Fore more information about the initiative, go online at
