Over 100 people stood in the blistering heat and humidity Friday to celebrate the official ribbon-cutting of the Magnolia Gardens housing complex on Marie Foster Street.

As attendees converted their programs into paper fans, the general partners in this project to create affordable housing for low- to moderate-income families and singles talked of how much Magnolia Gardens meant to them.

“I’ve worked in eight different states, and I haven’t found any place more cooperative than Selma,” said Butch Richardson, development manager for Olympia Construction. “When we came here, we put our hearts here. We received support early on from the mayor.”

Magnolia Gardens is a joint project of the Jonathan Daniels Community Development Corporation and the Albertville-based Olympia Construction.

The 48-unit housing complex is complete with a pool, playground, pavilion, and learning center that will play host to a number of financial and leadership training classes.

“This is affordable, decent housing for our families and our children,” said Joyce Kendrick, director of the Jonathon Daniels CDC. “We did this for them, because they are what’s most important.”

Dr. Geraldine Allen, chairperson with the Jonathon Daniels CDC, said when she first attended the groundbreaking for the complex, she had doubts about whether building it would be a possibility.

“I remember when I first stood here, there was nothing but moldy dirt,” Allen said. “Look at it now. The vision of Jonathon Daniels has been revitalized. Everyone deserves quality of life.”

Kendrick said she did extensive research on Olympia Construction before their partnership began, and believes their work will stand the test of time.

“Ten or fifteen years from now, this place will look the same as it does today,” Kendrick said.

Mayor James Perkins also spoke briefly during the ribbon cutting and congratulated all those involved in the project on a job well done.

Before the ribbon was cut, there was a moment of silence in remembrance of former President Ronald Reagan.

“We have been truly blessed in this project,” Kendrick said. “I’m really grateful for the large number of people who came out in support of us today.”