BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- Local and federal officials announced a multi-million-dollar project to redevelop housing in Benton Harbor.

According to a new release from Congressman Bill Huizenga, a $51 million redevelopment project for Harbor Towers and Buss Avenue Apartments has received final federal approval. Congressman Huizenga says this will modernize and improve 173 affordable housing units in the city.

The congressman's statement says the renovations will focus on "addressing decades of deferred maintenance, improving accessibility, and modernizing residents’ homes while preserving long-term affordability."

According to the news release, the project will be supported by $17 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit equity, as well as roughly $4.4 million in direct funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development programs. The project will also be supported by state, local, and private support, per the congressman's release.

“Benton Harbor families deserve more than just a roof over their heads. They deserve the dignity, stability, and opportunity that come with a safe, well-maintained home," says Congressman Huizenga.

“This long-sought project delivers on the promise of modernizing affordable housing for residents of Benton Harbor,” said Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad. “Additionally, these projects will help deliver good-paying jobs and crucial economic activity for our community. I want to thank all our community partners, the Benton Harbor Housing Commission, and Congressman Huizenga for their leadership in getting the financing of this project across the finish line."