Passing the Baton with Gratitude and Hope
It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as Executive Director of the Trenton Housing Authority. Over the years, I had the honor of working alongside a dedicated team, passionate residents, and visionary community partners, all united in a mission to build vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods across our great city.
Together, we accomplished transformative work. From securing a $19 million Choice Neighborhoods Grant to launching a comprehensive revitalization strategy grounded in equity, innovation, and resident involvement, we created a blueprint for lasting change. The momentum we built is setting the stage for a brighter future for the city of Trenton.
As I transition from this role, I do so with immense pride in what we have achieved, and even greater excitement for what is to come. It is with full confidence that I pass the baton to Clifford Godfrey, a seasoned professional whose experience, insight, and commitment to public service make him the ideal leader to guide THA in this next chapter.
Clifford is a visionary who pairs big-picture thinking with strategic action. He brings an extraordinary record of accomplishment of success and a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver results that reflect the needs and dreams of our community. I am confident he will continue to move this agency forward with excellence and heart.
To our residents, staff, and partners: thank you for your trust, your energy, and your unwavering belief in what is possible. This journey was a blessing, and I am grateful to have shared it with all of you.
Throughout my tenure, I had the honor of leading some ambitious neighborhood revitalization projects in Trenton. These initiatives—now representing over $100 million in public and private investment—are reshaping the city and opening new pathways of opportunity.
That journey began with listening. We engaged deeply with the community, hosted resident-led design sessions, and relied on data to guide each step. Together, we began the journey of advancing affordable housing, modernizing infrastructure, strengthening commercial corridors, and aligning supportive services to drive sustainable, resident-centered renewal.
The vision is achievable: safer streets, vibrant small businesses, new homes rising where disinvestment once stood, and a growing sense of pride and promise in every neighborhood. Our approach was to build with the community, not just in it, and that spirit of collaboration will continue to guide THA’s work ahead.
This is only the beginning. As the THA continues investing in the neighborhoods that make Trenton home, the shared commitment remains clear: to ensure every resident has the opportunity to thrive economically, socially, and culturally.
With gratitude,
Jelani Garrett
Executive Director (Retiring)
Trenton Housing Authority
