Trenton Housing Authority
- 875 New Willow Street
- Trenton, NJ 08638
- 609.278.5000
THA History
The Trenton Housing Authority began like other public housing agencies in the United States, with the federal government's creation and funding of nationwide public housing. The Housing Act of 1937, however, drastically changed the federal government’s role in public housing by placing ownership and production under local control. This important change allowed Trenton to create its own housing authority on December 18, 1938 by City Ordinance, in accordance with New Jersey enabling legislation.
Today, the Trenton Housing Authority is an autonomous body that is charted by the State of New Jersey, partially funded by the federal government, and governed by a seven member Board of Commissioners. Five of the Commissioners are selected by the City Council, one is chosen by the Mayor and one is chosen by the Government. The Organization is like a hybrid with each entity having a stake in the authority.
The very first public housing complex in Trenton—Lincoln Homes—was built in 1941. The second development—Donnelly Homes—was built the following year. Both sites were constructed to accommodate the housing needs of immigrants from southern states, most of which were African Americans coming to the city to take advantage of job opportunities in the industrial sector.
The original housing complexes were predominately three-story walk-up and town house configurations. In 1945, near the end of World War II, Prospect Village was built offering more housing opportunities to families in need. In 1952, three additional developments were created—Kearney Homes, Campbell Homes and Wilson Homes.
Over the past 30 years, the THA has served nearly 2,000 households. Several new housing sites have been added to meet the growing needs of families in Trenton. The biggest challenge facing the Authority is the increased demands for housing with limited resources and support. Even with this challenge though, the THA is committed to providing the best possible service to our clients. Nothing is more important.
Latest News
Summer Camp in Full Swing!
The Trenton Housing Authority opened its annual Summer Camp for our young residents and non-residents on July 7th.
PROGRAM AIMS TO PREVENT, CONTROL AND REDUCE VIOLENT CRIME, DRUG ABUSE, AND GANG ACTIVITY IN DESIGNATED HIGH-CRIME NEIGHBORHOODS.
