Creating affordable and quality housing in Albany took steps to becoming a reality as ground was broken on the second phase of the South End Revitalization Project. Our Erin Connolly has what this project means for people in the area.

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ALBANY, N.Y. -- Clifton Simmons loves his apartment complex of nearly one year. As part of the first phase of the South End Revitalization Project in Albany, Eagle Court Apartments went from looking like this to looking like this.

Simmons said, "It's been peaceful, quiet. I know all the neighbors, all the neighbors real good, else crime, no trouble stuff like that since the renovation of the building. Stuff like that."

Wednesday, a little dirt in the air marked the groundbreaking of the second phase of the project. The goal is to trade overgrown land for flowers and boarded up windows for a beautiful home.

Jerry Jennings, the Mayor of Albany, said, "Investment spurs investment so it's a good thing to do and this is a win-win for all of us."

The second phase consists of 43 units of new and rehabilitated housing on Morton Avenue and other nearby streets. Besides boosting business, the project will create jobs. Thirty percent of the work force constructing these apartments must live in the neighborhood.

Carolyn McLaughlin, the Albany Common Council President, said, "We don't want to push people out and make room for new people because people are dedicated to his community."

And obviously, lots of improvements have been made, but lots more work needs to be done.

Brenda Allen, an Albany resident, said, "It looks like since they did this the block is cleaning up because once you start doing this and things are fixed, people start caring about it and then all the dirt can be pushed out of the neighborhood because now they know people care about where they live."

Daniel Banks, an Albany resident, said, "It's a good idea. I see they're trying to build the city up but it isn't going to work because come on look what type of area you're in. You're in the capital."

Despite mixed opinions, all units in phase two are expected to be completed and occupied by the summer of 2011.