The Oleanders at Broadway opened in Galveston, restoring 569 low-income housing units lost to Hurricane Ike. The mixed-income development features 348 units, modern amenities, and elevated buildings for storm resilience, marking a significant milestone in the community's recovery efforts.
Efforts to restore all 569 low-income housing units lost to Hurricane Ike have culminated in the official opening of The Oleanders at Broadway this week. After 16 years of advocacy and redevelopment, this milestone is a significant accomplishment for the community.
815 52nd Street is the location of the new mixed-income housing development, which is located on the former Oleander Homes public housing complex. Commemorating the completion of this innovative community, a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
The Oleanders, which encompasses five city blocks and comprises 348 units, was constructed by the Galveston Housing Authority (GHA) in collaboration with McCormack Baron Salazar (MBS). These units are intended to accommodate a wide variety of residents. The development is constructed to meet the highest standards and includes public housing-eligible families, low- to middle-income households, and market-rate tenants.
"GHA is delighted to have completed the final phase of the redevelopment of the housing that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike," stated Mona Purgason, GHA's Executive Director. "This cutting-edge community offers our residents indispensable housing alternatives."
A 9,500-square-foot administration and community center, fitness rooms, and outdoor recreational areas, including a central park and swimming pool, are among the modern amenities that The Oleanders offers. Modern standards have been implemented to improve the accessibility and safety of streets and utilities.
Commissioner Dawn Buckingham stated, "This project is indicative of our ongoing dedication to assisting communities in their recovery from natural disasters." "We are not only providing homes but also establishing a brighter future for the families who are the economic backbone of this island, with 348 affordable rental units."
The $120 million initiative was financed by a combination of private investments, Community Development Block Grant—Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs). The design incorporates green building features to promote sustainability and ensure resilience against future cyclones. Additionally, elevated buildings are included.
Richard Baron, the Chairman and Co-Founder of MBS, expressed his gratitude for the collaboration that enabled the initiative to be realized. "We are collectively constructing a more promising future for Galveston," he stated.
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