Although single real estate projects are critical to the families who move in, Isles’ ultimate goal is a more comprehensive one. It seeks to revitalize entire neighborhoods by bringing together Isles’ multi-faceted resources with key stakeholders in the community.
Isles trains local groups in redevelopment. Isles helps local groups form organizations, learn to run community meetings, develop community master plans, and connect with design
and financial experts.
Isles provides necessary resources. Isles offers expertise in developing open spaces like parks and gardens, community organizing, business creation, alternative education for youth, and environmental hazard assistance. These comprehensive services make it possible for communities to “think big.”
To support its revitalization agenda in the Old Trenton neighborhood , Isles applied to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit Program, which provides incentives for corporations to invest in community rebuilding. JPMorgan Chase & Co., PNC Bank, Merrill Lynch and PSE&G are underwriting a sizable portion of Isles’ revitalization activities in Trenton.
Over the next year, Isles will begin several projects in the Old Trenton neighborhood that will:
- Improve and increase safe, quality, mixed-income housing.
- Build the community’s financial and educational strength.
- Increase safety.
- Improve public open space.
- Expand and improve recreation.
- Build resident and stakeholder capabilities .
- Clean, green and beautify the community, reducing heat islands.
- Improve community and environmental health.