RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) -- A long-empty lot in one of Raleigh’s oldest historically Black neighborhoods will soon be home to 18 new affordable housing units.

From city leaders to longtime neighbors, hundreds gathered Monday morning as the first shovels hit the ground for the Cottages of Idlewild, across the street from LeVelle Moton Park on East Lane Street.

The project, led by the nonprofit Raleigh Area Land Trust (RALT), will bring 14 affordable homeownership units and four rental units to Idlewild.

“This property has been sitting vacant for more than 20 years,” said Kevin Campbell, RALT’s executive director. “We’re bringing affordable homeownership and rental opportunities here so people in the community have a chance to stay and not just be pushed out.”

The nonprofit bought the land f

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