A new 93-unit affordable housing development is helping meet the needs of seniors in Washington, D.C.
The Louise on Western is the first new affordable housing in Ward 3 and the Rock Creek West planning area in years, according to officials.
“This project demonstrates what’s possible when we stay committed to building affordable housing in every part of our city, and it will carry forward the Lisner-Louise-Dickson-Hurt Home’s (LLDH Home’s) long legacy of service and community,” said mayor Muriel Bowser.
The development is on the LLDH Home site, creating the District’s only continuum of care campus for seniors of low and modest incomes.
The completion of The Louise also represents a remarkable comeback story. After a 2020 flood rendered LLDH Home’s assisted-living building uninhabitable, the organization transformed the setback into an opportunity—launching an ambitious plan to rebuild, expand, and create a campus that supports seniors through every stage of aging.
Officials have reopened 45 units of assisted-living on the campus.
Steps away, the Louise features 93 one-bedroom units—52 units for residents earning up to 30% of the median family income (MFI) and 41 units at 50% of the MFI.
Designed by Wiencek and Associates Architects, the new homes feature granite countertops, center islands in every kitchen, large walk-in closets with a washer and dryer, high-efficiency HVACs, appliances, and LED lighting. All units are American National Standards Institute Type A, designed for universal access.
On-site amenities include a computer center, a salon, a hobby room, a fitness center, outdoor patios, and landscaped gardens.
“The Louise reflects how strong partnerships can deliver meaningful results,” said developer Vicki Davis, managing partner of Urban Atlantic Development. “It’s an example of neighbors, government, and the private sector coming together to ensure affordability, inclusion, and opportunity in one of the city’s most prosperous areas.”
Financing for the $65 million development includes the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development’s Housing Production Trust Fund, federal and state low-income housing tax credits, and D.C. Housing Finance Agency bonds.
Boston Financial and Rise Impact Capital provided the equity investment. Capital One Community Finance, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, and D.C. Green Bank provided debt financing. National Housing Trust provided predevelopment financing. A grant from the Amazon Housing Fund supported renovation of the existing building.