The Jordan Downs development in the Watts area of Los Angeles has taken another step forward with the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) receiving a $35 million Choice Neighborhood Initiative (CNI) grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The news comes just six weeks after HACLA’s private sector partner, The Michaels Organization, announced it had achieved a financial closing on the third phase of new housing in the development plan for Jordan Downs’ revitalization.
“Watts residents have for years been dreaming of and advocating for this community transformation, and now that transformation is becoming a reality,” said Kecia Boulware, vice president of development for Camden, New Jersey-based Michaels. “Michaels and our partners are grateful to HUD for supporting our vision for high-quality affordable housing with this CNI award and for including $5 million for much-needed supportive services for the families of Jordan Downs.”
Michaels and non-profit Bridge Housing were selected by HACLA as the master developers for the Jordan Downs revitalization in 2015. Since then, two residential developments, the extension of Century Boulevard and the opening of new neighborhood retail have been completed, and Michaels has begun site work on the third phase of new housing.
When complete, Jordan Downs will offer some 1,400 new affordable homes to existing and new residents, in a vibrant mixed-use, mixed-income urban village, with significant green space and community amenities.
The $35 million CNI grant includes $5 million that will be directed specifically for social services for Jordan Downs residents. The non-profit organization Better Tomorrows, which serves as Michaels’ lead services partner, will deliver programming to the residents of Jordan Downs that focus on healthy lifestyles, strong communities, educational success, and financial stability.
