FREEPORT — Three families will have new homes in the spring thanks to another Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland project on the corner of South Street and West Street.

This is the third project completed in Freeport, but different in that there will be three homes built on one lot.

Amy Dowler, Habitat’s associate executive director and director of family services, said a ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, Jan. 11, at 3 p.m. will be a way for the public to learn more about the project.

“People in Freeport have seen the activity at the build site and this is an opportunity for Habitat to give them more information on what is happening,” she said. “It is first time we have done a multiple-unit model in Freeport and we want to answer any questions we can.”

There will be three homes built on the South Street lot, modeling existing projects in Portland and Westbrook.

Executive Director Steven Bolton said while Habitat has always worked with families who have very low income, he noticed families that were making between $60,000 and $70,000 are applying, too.

“After contacting the Maine State Housing Authority, I discovered the amount of people who cannot afford a house is staggering,” he said. “That trend has grown because of the economy. We are still working with those within the very low-income bracket as well as those who are in the first-time home-buyer program through the Maine State Housing Authority.”

Dowler said a family selection committee will give Habitat directors their recommendation at the next board meeting and by the end of January a family will be selected to live in a house on South Street.

The South Street site can meet two levels of need for affordable home ownership opportunities, she said. One family will apply for the home through Habitat and pay its mortgage to the organization. The other two families will follow the requirements of the Maine State Housing Authority’s First Home program.

“It is an exciting opportunity for us to be able to provide another level of affordable housing,” Dowler said. “This dedication is a way for people to learn more about what we offer and how they can be involved.”

Bolton said two foundations are in the ground and capped for the winter. After additional fundraising, the organization will break ground in the spring on the third home.

Following the project dedication on Tuesday, participants are invited to the Freeport Town Hall at 30 Main St. for refreshments and additional information.

Contact Dowler at 772-2151 or amy@habitatme.org for more information or to attend the event.

Amy Anderson can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or aanderson@theforecaster.net