As part of an overall HOPE VI revitalization plan in Phoenix, the obsolete Frank Luke Addition public housing project has been replaced with mixed-income and sustainable housing.
Adding to a previous senior housing development are two new phases with 130 units targeted to families that came online in 2016 and an 11,423-square-foot community center that will be completed this summer.
Redeveloped by the City of Phoenix Housing Department, the community has been renamed Aeroterra to reflect its connection to the Hohokam Indian tribe village and its relationship with the terra, or land, and to honor Frank Luke Jr., aka Aero, an ace fighter pilot during World War I who was born in Phoenix.
A contrast to the barracks-style structures with inefficient systems of the past, Aeroterra will earn Enterprise Green Communities designation for its energy efficiency and healthy-homes design elements and is certified as Energy Star Version 3.
The mixed-income community includes public housing, project-based Sec. 8 residences, low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) units, and market-rate homes. The housing department awarded 48 project-based Sec. 8 vouchers to subsidize rents for very low-income households earning at or below 30% of the area median income, with a portion set aside for chronically homeless individuals and families with a preference for veterans. In partnership with the city's Human Services Department, wraparound services are provided to the homeless households to ensure successful transition into stable housing.
Angela Duncan, deputy housing director, says the redevelopment is focused on families, with a waiting list for the larger three-, four-, and five-bedroom units.
“The demand for affordable housing in this location is huge. There are a lot of kids in this community, and it’s very family-oriented,” she adds. “We have two after-school programs planned as well as summer programs for kids and teens.”
The city utilized federal and local sources, including HOPE VI funds, LIHTCs, and general obligation bond funds for affordable housing from the city, for the $32.8 million second and third phases. National Equity Fund provided the LIHTC equity.
