Letter to the Editor: Opportunity Zone developments help homeless Philadelphians in President Trump’s first 100 days

Opportunity Zones have been a blessing for our nation, and the numbers show it. Investments have improved lives in more than 8,700 communities and lifted one million Americans out of poverty nationwide. 

Philadelphia is home to 82 Opportunity Zones, which help almost one in five of the city’s residents, and account for roughly 200 revitalization projects.

Many Philadelphians suffer from homelessness — but Opportunity Zones have helped distressed Americans find housing throughout President Trump’s first 100 days in office. 

In March, I had the privilege of seeing firsthand how these projects are benefiting Philadelphians when I toured One River Marina and The Battery — two Opportunity Zone developments that will bring new life to the city. For 40 years, the Battery and surrounding neighborhoods fell into disrepair. Opportunity Zones opened the neighborhoods up to $154 million in investments and transformed the forgotten industrial space into a thriving community on the Delaware River.

Homeownership is a core part of the American Dream, and the Trump administration has been working hard in the first 100 Days to ensure all Americans can achieve that dream. At HUD, we’re excited to continue working diligently to make sure all Americans prosper under this new Golden Age.

Scott Turner is the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary.