Special Initiatives
Durham County Government Affordable Housing
Durham County is committed to addressing the growing need for affordable housing in our community through innovative strategies, partnerships, and investment. The Durham County Affordable Housing Initiative aims to ensure that all residents, regardless of income, have access to safe, quality, and affordable housing options.
Our mission is to create sustainable, inclusive neighborhoods that foster stability, health, and opportunity for all Durham residents. We are focused on expanding affordable housing opportunities through new development by partnering with local organizations and developers.
- Increase the Supply of Affordable Housing: We are working to build new affordable housing units, as well as preserve and rehabilitate existing ones to keep them affordable for low- to moderate-income families.
- Promote Equity and Inclusion: We are focused on ensuring that affordable housing initiatives support historically underserved communities and ensure equitable access to housing for all residents, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.
- Foster Community Partnerships: Durham County collaborates with local housing agencies, non-profit organizations, developers, and other stakeholders to pool resources, share expertise, and maximize the impact of affordable housing projects.
Public Art
The Durham County Public Art Program, adopted in 2019, was established to enhance the cultural vibrancy of the county through the integration of public art. This initiative aims to foster community pride, promote local artists, and create spaces that reflect the diverse history, culture, and identity of Durham.
Goals of the Durham County Public Art Program:
- The program seeks to beautify public spaces throughout Durham County, making them more welcoming, engaging, and inspiring for residents and visitors alike. Public art installations are placed in accessible, high-traffic areas in Durham County Government Facilities.
- Support Local Artists: By commissioning artworks from local, regional, and national artists, the program provides opportunities for creative expression and supports the local arts community. The program encourages diverse artistic practices and perspectives, including visual arts, sculpture, murals, and interactive installations.
- Reflect Durham's Diversity and History: The artwork commissioned and displayed through the program is intended to represent Durham's rich cultural history, diverse communities, and values. By incorporating themes that reflect the city’s past, present, and future, the program aims to foster a deeper connection to the community and its heritage.
- Community Engagement: The program emphasizes public participation and community engagement. Local residents are encouraged to provide input on art projects, ensuring that public art resonates with the community’s interests, concerns, and collective identity.
- Promote Durham as a Cultural Destination: By investing in public art, Durham County aims to attract visitors and promote Durham as a hub for creativity and culture. Public art can play a key role in creating a sense of place, making Durham an appealing destination for tourists, businesses, and future residents.