HANO Finalizes Purchase of Historic 821 Washington Avenue Property, Set to Provide 31 Affordable Housing Units by October 2025 - New property revitalizes a historic building to support the affordable housing community in New Orleans.
New Orleans, LA – October 8, 2024 – The Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) is pleased to announce its acquisition of the historic 821 Washington Avenue property. This monumental purchase marks a key milestone in HANO’s ongoing efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities in the city. Following renovations, the property is scheduled to open for leasing in October 2025, providing 31 modern apartment units to serve the city's affordable housing community.
The property, located in the heart of Uptown New Orleans, brings a rich architectural and cultural history to the city’s affordable housing landscape. Originally built in two phases between 1950 and 1953, the structure was designed as the Methodist Home Hospital, replacing two wood-frame residential buildings that had been used as a maternity home and hospital since 1918. Over the decades, the property transitioned from the Methodist Children’s Home in 1973 to a dog daycare business in 2011. Now, with its National Register eligibility intact, the building has been carefully restored and modernized to preserve its historical character while serving a critical housing need.
Renovation and Development
The property was renovated in 2019, transforming it into a 31-unit apartment complex, and it will undergo further enhancements in preparation for its reopening in 2025. The apartments offer a variety of layouts, including one- and two-bedroom units, ranging from 542 to 889 square feet. Residents can enjoy upscale features such as:
· One-bedroom units (542-624 sq. ft.) with ensuite bathrooms and optional studies.
· Two-bedroom units (611-889 sq. ft.), available in both one-bath and two-bath configurations, including loft-style apartments with expansive living spaces.
Each unit is equipped with modern conveniences including granite countertops, hardwood floors, air conditioning, stackable washers and dryers, and dishwashers. In addition to the high-quality interiors, the building offers desirable community amenities, such as a serene outdoor courtyard, a fitness center, gated parking for 22 vehicles, a bike storage room, and a dedicated package storage area for deliveries. Residents will also benefit from the convenience of an elevator for easy access to all floors.
Prime Location in Uptown New Orleans
821 Washington Avenue’s location in the charming Irish Channel neighborhood places residents within walking distance of vibrant Magazine Street, home to some of New Orleans’ best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Residents will have easy access to six RTA transit stops within a 15-minute walk, providing convenient travel throughout the city. The property is also located just 16.7 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, offering swift access for those who travel frequently.
In addition to nearby conveniences, the property is minutes from major educational institutions like Tulane and LSU Health Center, as well as a collection of renowned parks and museums, including the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.
Evette Hester, Executive Director of HANO, emphasized the significance of this acquisition: "The 821 Washington Avenue project exemplifies our commitment to preserving the rich history of New Orleans while providing safe, quality, and affordable housing for our residents. This property has served the community in many ways over the past century, and we are proud to breathe new life into it as part of our affordable housing stock. By doing so, we’re not only preserving a historic structure but also giving families and individuals access to housing in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. We are thrilled to see this vision come to fruition and look forward to welcoming new residents to this beautiful property."
Upon its reopening in October 2025, 821 Washington Avenue will be a crucial addition to New Orleans' housing inventory, providing 31 units of affordable housing. HANO is committed to ensuring that these homes offer quality, accessibility, and convenience for residents who need it most. By combining modern living with historical preservation, the project highlights HANO’s dedication to serving the community while maintaining the cultural and architectural legacy of New Orleans.
With a focus on revitalizing communities and fostering economic opportunities, HANO is proud to continue prioritizing the provision of affordable housing in New Orleans through sustainable development, effective partnerships, and innovative housing solutions.
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