Spearheaded by Mayor Ras Baraka, Newark’s Model Neighborhood Initiative aims to pull together the human and financial resources of government agencies, nonprofits, residents, and other area stakeholders to transform Newark neighborhoods into model communities of prosperity. Launched in 2014, the program initially targets the Clinton Hill and Lower West Ward neighborhoods. Anticipated projects will include neighborhood beautification and greening efforts, new home construction and ownership programs for local professionals and artist, small business enhancements along key corridors, small business incubation, and the formation of neighborhood block associations. The initial phase of the effort will also include a $55 million City investment to repair or construct up to 150 homes in the West Ward and 50 in the South Ward.