SAN FRANCISCO -- In another attempt to reach out to those living in an economically disadvantaged neighborhood, a United Methodist congregation and its secular partners have unveiled a $200 million housing development.

The development will provide affordable housing and mixed-use commercial space in the Tenderloin area of San Francisco's inner city, according to the United Methodist News Service. Ground will be broken in 2004, with work expected to be completed in 2007. The project is the city's largest in at least 10 years, according to a news release.

"This project, which has been years in the planning, will serve as the engine that generates economic independence and vitality to a neighborhood that is home to a rich diversity of people and small businesses," said the Rev. Cecil Williams. Williams is chief executive officer of Glide Memorial United Methodist Church, which is leading the project.

Glide Memorial, located in the Tenderloin area, founded the nonprofit Glide Economic Development Corp. in 2000. The corporation brings public and private partners together in revitalizing low-income neighborhoods. Partners include the Mayor's Office of Housing, Hilton San Francisco, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corp., Related Companies of California, Eveyln and Walter Haas Jr. Fund, San Francisco's Convention Facilities Department and the Parking Authority of the City and County of San Francisco.

The development will include 400 units of affordable and market-rate rental housing along with 100,000 square feet of exhibition, meeting and ballroom space. Additional rental space will be provided for nonprofit organizations, social services and retail operations. An underground 550-car capacity parking garage is planned.

The Glide Economic Development Corp. has received a $6.85 million grant from the city for pre-development expenses and real estate acquisition. The Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund gave $100,000 toward the effort; Hilton San Francisco has contributed nearly $200,000. Remaining funds are expected to come from a variety of sources, including city-sponsored bond financing and private donations, according to the release.