— Casey “Oche” Bridgeford
Our CEO
- President’s Message
Casey “Oche” Bridgeford
President & CEO, Palatka Housing Authority
“I know what it’s like to grow up in public housing. I know the struggles, but I also know the potential. My vision for PHA is simple: we will be the kind of housing authority that doesn’t just give people a place to live—we give them a reason to believe in their future. We will build homes, yes, but more importantly, we will build hope, opportunity, and wealth for the families of Palatka.”
Vision for PHA
Partnerships that deliver
Public‑private partnerships that expand affordable housing and redevelopment while protecting long‑term affordability.
Resident‑centered programming
Tools for financial independence, entrepreneurship, and credible pathways from renter to homeowner.
Sustainable development
Creative financing, reinvestment, and stewardship of assets to strengthen neighborhoods block by block.
Organizational excellence
Transparency, accountability, modern systems, and world‑class standards of service.
“We’re not just in the business of housing—we’re in the business of building futures.”
Leading with Vision
Casey “Oche” Bridgeford leads the Palatka Housing Authority (PHA) with a bold vision: to transform housing from a safety net into a springboard for opportunity, wealth‑building, and generational change.
With more than 20 years of experience in affordable housing, real estate, and community development, Oche brings both professional expertise and personal passion to the work. Having grown up in public housing himself, he understands deeply the dignity, stability, and possibility that safe housing can unlock. That lived experience fuels his commitment to reimagining what a housing authority can and should be for residents today.
Mr. Bridgeford Experience
Leadership & Governance
- Legislative Committee Member, National Association of Housing & Redevelopment Organizations (NAHRO).
- Housing & Redevelopment Committee Member, NAHRO.
- At‑Large Executive Board Member, Florida Association of Housing & Redevelopment Organizations (FAHRO) — At‑Large, Executive Board (elected).
Education & Executive Training
- PHADA–Rutgers Executive Director Education Program (EDEP), Graduate — Rutgers University Center for Government Services.
- Master’s in Real Estate, Georgetown University.
- Bachelor’s in Political Science (International Relations), University of Pennsylvania.
Previous Roles
- Director of Communication & Compliance, Harrisburg Housing Authority.
- Founder, The Weekender Festival — cultural platform merging creativity, community, and social impact.
Vision for Residents & Community
- Residents: Pathways from renter to homeowner, from survival to wealth‑building, and from dependency to independence.
- Community: A Palatka where affordable housing and economic opportunity reinforce each other—where revitalized neighborhoods attract investment, nurture small businesses, and create intergenerational prosperity.
- Future generations: Breaking poverty traps and building systems that prepare children to thrive in education, work, and life.
Why Choose Palatka Housing Authority ?
Transparent & Accountable Leadership
Community-First Approach
Housing is more than a place to live. Everything we do is centered on strengthening families.
Beyond Housing Solutions
We do more than manage homes and vouchers.
Transparent & Accountable Leadership
We believe public trust matters. That is why we focus on clear communication.
Partnerships That Create Impact
Lasting change happens through collaboration.
Photos & Media
