Renaissance Neighborhood Development Corp. transformed three historic buildings as part of the redevelopment of 1770 Tchoupitoulas, a two-acre site along the Mississippi River in New Orleans. The project includes 52 moderate-income rentals, space for the Fresh Food Factor, and a 40,000-square-foot warehouse that houses bulk metal storage.
Twenty-seven of the apartments are affordable to families earning up to 80 percent of the area median income, while the remaining 25 units have no income restrictions. However, the rents are approximately 20 percent below comparable rates in the submarket.
The residential portion of the development is certified LEED for Homes Gold and Enterprise Green Communities. Low-flow plumbing fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, as well as an efficient water-source heat pump for central cooling and heating are included.
The 13,317-square-foot Centennial Cotton Press Building provides space for Fresh Food Factor, a program of Volunteers of America Greater New Orleans. Launched in 2013, Fresh Food Factor prepares and delivers nutritious means for public and charter schools in New Orleans. It also includes a culinary arts training program.