Rep. Frederica Wilson to break ground on $3 million veterans housing development honoring Sgt. La David Johnson in Miami

MIAMI — U.S. Rep. Frederica S. Wilson will lead a groundbreaking ceremony for a new affordable housing development honoring fallen Army Sgt. La David T. Johnson.

The Sgt. La David T. Johnson Veterans Villas will expand housing opportunities for veterans in Miami. The project also aims to preserve the legacy of a soldier whose service and sacrifice touched the South Florida community.

According to a news release, Wilson will lead the ceremony Monday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. The event will take place at 8111 NW 17th Ave. in Miami.

The development will provide safe, affordable housing while recognizing the sacrifices of American service members.

$3 Million in Federal Funding Supports Veterans Housing

Wilson, who represents Florida’s 24th Congressional District, sponsored the project. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will provide federal funding.

Additionally, Wilson will present a ceremonial check recognizing $3 million in federal earmark funding for the development.

CRC Leadership Inc. will receive the grant and help oversee the project’s development.

The organization is collaborating with JL Brown Development Corp., Miami-Dade County, housing advocates and the veteran community.

Together, the partners aim to expand affordable housing opportunities for former service members.

The investment also reflects broader efforts to address housing needs while strengthening communities across Miami-Dade County.

Honoring the Legacy of Sgt. La David T. Johnson

The development bears the name of Sgt. La David T. Johnson, a U.S. Army soldier who died while serving his country.

Johnson’s legacy remains an important part of the South Florida community.

By naming the development in his honor, project leaders aim to connect his military service with lasting support for fellow veterans.

Moreover, the housing initiative will serve as a tribute to his sacrifice while providing practical assistance to former service members.

Johnson, a Miami Gardens native, was 25 when militants ambushed his military unit in Niger on Oct. 4, 2017.

He was among four American soldiers killed during the attack, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.

Johnson also participated in Wilson’s 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project, a mentoring initiative for young people.

Wilson previously spoke about her personal connection to Johnson and his family following his death.

The Army later posthumously awarded Johnson the Silver Star for his bravery.

Miami-Dade Leaders to Attend Groundbreaking Ceremony

Several local officials and community representatives are expected to attend the Nov. 9 ceremony.

They include Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and County Commissioner Marleine Bastien, who represents District 2.

Representatives from CRC Leadership Inc. and JL Brown Development Corp. will also participate.

Additionally, veterans, housing advocates and community leaders will join the gathering.

The ceremony will mark the beginning of a development designed to provide affordable housing and honor Johnson’s legacy.

While organizers have announced the groundbreaking and federal investment, they have not provided a construction completion date or the number of planned housing units.