THA Announces Leadership Transition
The Trenton Housing Authority (THA) announces the retirement of Executive Director Jelani Garrett, whose visionary leadership has ushered in a new era of community investment and transformation in New Jersey’s capital city. Garrett leaves behind a legacy of over 28 years in affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization, having served as THA’s Executive Director since 2017. He will be succeeded by Deputy Executive Director Clifford Godfrey, a seasoned housing leader with extensive experience in capital planning, HUD compliance, and community-based redevelopment.
“Jelani’s leadership has left an indelible mark on our city,” said Mayor of Trenton Reed Gusciora. “He built trust, fostered collaboration, and brought the community together to reimagine what Trenton can be. His tenure has been defined by progress, purpose, and a true belief in the people he served.”
“Jelani’s legacy is one of collaboration, strategic thinking, and relentless advocacy for the people of Trenton,” said THA Chairperson Darlene Weldon. “His work laid the foundation for a new era of revitalization.”
During his time at the helm, Garrett expanded the role of a public housing authority by leading with innovation, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to equitable development. He was instrumental in securing the $19 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods grant—the first in Trenton’s history—which will catalyze more than $100 million in federal, state, and private investment for the revitalization of the North Trenton/Battle Monument neighborhood. This funding supported the creation of a comprehensive Transformation Plan focused on housing, education, employment, and safety, and earned THA the prestigious Smart Growth Award from New Jersey Future.
Garrett has also guided the planning and implementation of THA community-wide redevelopment strategies, positioning THA as a central partner in more than $300 million in public and private investment projects across the city. These efforts have led to the redevelopment and preservation of affordable housing units, development of resident-centered support programs, and expanded partnerships with nonprofit organizations, schools, and workforce training providers.
In addition to his work in Trenton, Garrett has been recognized as a thought leader in housing policy throughout the state, frequently speaking on panels and contributing to strategic planning efforts with other housing authorities and community development organizations.
Clifford Godfrey brings decades of operational excellence and a deep understanding of affordable housing policy to his new role. As THA’s Deputy Executive Director, Godfrey has overseen daily operations, capital projects, maintenance, risk management, and IT systems.
Prior to joining THA, Godfrey served as Chief Operating Officer at Newark Housing Authority, where he led large-scale development projects, managed a $46 million capital budget, and significantly improved Section 3 hiring and local contracting, earning national accolades for inclusive economic development.
Godfrey has been instrumental in securing over $10 million in HUD grants, including multiple Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grants, and has led transformational efforts like the Newark Downtown Redevelopment Plan and the Dayton Street Revitalization Project. His ability to integrate housing, infrastructure, and social services into cohesive neighborhood strategies has directly improved outcomes for residents and communities.
“Clifford’s leadership style is rooted in partnership and impact,” said Garrett. “I have full confidence that he will continue this agency’s upward momentum and bring fresh perspective to our most pressing challenges.”
About Trenton Housing Authority:
THA is an autonomous body that is chartered by the City of Trenton and the State of New Jersey, with partial funding by the federal government through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, the THA is committed to providing decent, safe, and sanitary housing that is thoroughly constructed, carefully maintained, and expertly managed. The THA seeks to identify projects that have the potential to act as a catalyst for the revitalization of neighborhoods in the City of Trenton. In an effort to promote self-sufficiency among the families that reside in its communities, the THA partners with local agencies and organizations to provide education, training, employment, and business opportunities for its residents.
For more information, visit tha-nj.org.