Westacres was a greenbelt development of 150 homes created by Oakland Housing, Inc. in 1936. The idea for this self-sufficient neighborhood was conceived and financed by United States Senator James Couzens, who contributed $550,000 and secured a grant of $300,000 from the Federal Emergency Relief Administration. Although the project grew out of the Depression years and prospective settlers were limited to low-income workingmen and their families, it was not a relief effort. The houses were originally leased, then sold to successful applicants for $4,400. Each 1,144 square foot home stood on an acre, and families were encouraged to grow fruits and vegetables for their own use. The community included a clubhouse, recreational commons, natural wooded areas, and a beach with picnic facilities. Important parts of Westacres' history included the Westacres Volunteer Fire Department, a grocery co-op, and a commuter bus. Established organizations included the Westacres Community Association, the Westacres Credit Union, The Westacres Weekly, the Westacres Women's Club, and the Westacres Library.