A decades-long effort has been realized with the opening of a new affordable housing community in New Haven, Connecticut.
The 56-unit Curtis Cofield II Estates not only brings needed housing options to the West River neighborhood, it reknits a neighborhood that was torn down as part of a highway project years ago.
“This development reflects what’s possible when public and private partners unite around a shared vision for housing equity,” said Eric Price, president and CEO of The NHP Foundation (NHPF) “Curtis Cofield II Estates represents a new model for affordability, sustainability, and community investment and we look forward to doing more work in New Haven.”
Built on vacant city-owned land, the project marks the nonprofit’s first development in New Haven and is the result of a partnership with the West River Self-Help Investment Plan (West River SHIP).
“Where homes once stood, homes now stand again, and a community that was previously torn apart by highway construction is once again reconnected,” said mayor Justin Elicker. “West River SHIP, working in collaboration with the city and many other partners, has created something extraordinary— a community where working-class residents can find affordable housing, formerly homeless residents can find stability, and neighbors with disabilities can enjoy full accessibility—a place where everyone can flourish together in a truly inclusive environment.”
Named in honor of a local housing advocate and distinguished religious leader, the development includes 11 townhouse-style buildings. There are 44 units for households earning up to 60% of the area median income (AMI), including 12 supportive housing units. The remaining 12 units are home to residents earning up to 100% of the AMI.
Championed by the late Rev. Cofield, the development was approximately 30 years in the making.
The all-electric project includes a 2,700-square-foot community center. Operation Pathways, NHPF’s resident services subsidiary, will coordinate on-site programming for residents. Columbus House will provide supportive services for the formerly homeless individuals and families.
Financing for the $30 million project includes 9% low-income housing tax credit equity from RBC Community Investments. Other partners include Citizens Bank, Connecticut Department of Housing, Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, city of New Haven, and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston.
