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For Immediate Release
November 15, 2007 |
Contact: Katie Groen
(202) 885-9565 |
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Historic Complex Has New Beginning
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Mayfair Mansions residents celebrate groundbreaking
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Washington, DC – Residents, community members, officials, partners, and developers of Mayfair Mansions gathered today to celebrate the preservation and restoration of this landmark on the historic register that began as the first unrestricted housing complex for African American professionals and working families in the District of Columbia.
During World War II, prominent African American architect Albert I. Cassell, the designer behind much of Howard University, conceived of a place where African Americans working in the District might live. In 1945, backed by the Roosevelt Administration, he created Mayfair Mansions, a 17-building complex with careful detailing and a sense of family and home. A visionary ahead of his time, Cassell also incorporated commercial services and community facilities—ones much needed, but not yet built. Years later, that vision may be finally realized as the community once ridden by crime and drugs and marked by disrepair has been given new life.
Nearly three years ago, the residents of Mayfair Mansions learned their homes were being sold to an out-of-state buyer. Threatened with the possibility of market rate conversion, they organized as the Mayfair Mansions 2005 Tenants Association, Inc. (MMTA) and began a search for a developer interested in restoring their homes, while keeping them affordable. MMTA chose the development team of Community Preservation and Development Corporation (CPDC) and Marshall Heights Community Development Organization (MHCDO), who offered a comprehensive plan that addressed the tenants’ desire for both long-term affordability and the possibility of homeownership. This groundbreaking celebrates the residents’ journey to secure the resources needed to restore this valuable community.
“This has been a lengthy process, with all the moving parts that had to come together in this project. The tenants of Mayfair Mansions are very pleased that renovation of our property is underway, knowing that it will stand as a model for others to follow,” stated Shirley Lawson, MMTA’s president.
Mayfair Mansions was the first unrestricted housing for African Americans in the District. It was also the first privately developed housing project for African Americans to be insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Another first for this complex was the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) approval for transitioning this previously rental community into a mixed tenure rental and homeownership one.
The extraordinary assistance offered by HUD is equaled by the commitment made by the District of Columbia. The permanent and construction financing for the rental project will utilize the DC Housing Production Trust Fund (HPTF) managed by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Federal Historic Tax Credits, as well as Tax Exempt Bond financing and Low Income Housing Tax Credit allocations provided by DC Housing Finance Agency (HFA). The rental first mortgage and equity investment are provided by private sector partner MMA Financial LLC. The condominium project will utilize private construction financing from PNC Bank and also HPTF subsidy from DHCD. DHCD’s role has been significant throughout the project; the acquisition of the property in 2006 was made possible through a $24.2 million loan provided by DHCD, the biggest loan ever by DHCD.
“In an industry of diminishing returns when it comes to preserving affordable housing stock, we are honored by the commitment the District, HUD, and our private sector partners have shown to the residents of Mayfair Mansions and to affordable housing in the District,” stated J. Michael Pitchford, CPDC’s president and CEO.
Federal and local leaders stand firmly behind this project, as is needed in one of this scale and complexity. The financing and regulatory hurdles overcome were done so with the valuable assistance of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, HUD Secretary Alphonzo Jackson, Mayor Adrian Fenty, City Council Chairman Vincent Gray, Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander, and each of the teams in their offices. All were present at the groundbreaking ceremony.
Since the 569-unit complex had repeatedly failed federal physical inspections in recent years, the redevelopment project will rectify ongoing problems and bring the units up to market rate standards. The substantial rehabilitation of the units will include a host of significant improvements, including mechanical, plumbing and electrical system upgrades; sprinklers in all buildings and units; new fire alarm and security systems; complete new kitchens and bathrooms; new unit carpeting and/or flooring; new windows and doors; roof replacement and repair; upgrades and enhancements to the pool, tot lot, parking area and public area lighting.
The project also includes replacing the current community building with a new free-standing community center that will provide programs and resources to further improve the quality of life of residents. The entire redevelopment process, expected to be completed in 2009, will create a socially, financially and physically secure community for the residents.
The rental portion consists of 409 units (410 after redevelopment), the majority of which are supported by a renewed 20-year Section 8 contract, ensuring continued affordability for very low-income residents. The homeownership portion, consisting of 160 units, has multiple price points and subsidy options to serve a range of incomes. Eligible residents can utilize the Section 8 Homeownership Program to purchase their units.
“This opportunity has been afforded to residents of Ward 7 that is both monumental and historic. MHCDO is proud to partner in an effort to bring affordable housing east of the Anacostia River to residents who have lived here, worshiped here for over 30 years. Today is their day!” stated Michael I. Watts, Jr., President and CEO for MHCDO.
CPDC and MHCDO are both nonprofit development organizations based in Washington, DC. CPDC has developed over 25 affordable housing preservation properties, totaling nearly 4,500 units in the District, Maryland and Virginia, with community development programs focusing on empowerment, education, and technology. MHCDO has successfully developed on its own or in partnership with others a 60-unit supportive housing facility, a 469-unit garden-style apartment complex, 220,000 square feet of retail/office space, 20,000 square feet of warehouse/industrial space, and over 150 homes sold to low- and moderate-income buyers. |
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| CPDC's mission is to develop vibrant communities through innovation and partnerships. To accomplish this, CPDC creates and preserves financially sound, socially responsible affordable housing for low- and moderate-income individuals and families and, in cooperation with community residents, develops community programs that strengthen communities and increase opportunities for growth. |
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