Redevelopment
2023
360
$87.9M
FHA Insured First Mortgage
LIHTC
D.C. Department of Housing & Community Development Loan
Deferred Developer Fee
Sponsor Loan
Energy Efficiency Funds/DCSEU
DBH Grant
800 Southern Avenue (formerly Park Southern Apartments) is a 12-story high-rise, 360-unit multifamily development. Originally built in 1965 to provide housing opportunities individuals and families who did not qualify for federal housing subsidies, 800 Southern Avenue has a rich history in the Washington Highlands neighborhood. Original funding or the community came from the city, the federal government, and private investors. The property was the jewel of the neighborhood for many years with the original owner and manager at the helm. Over the years, 800 Southern Avenue had been neglected and the interior had fallen into disrepair while the exterior was dilapidated. It was partially renovated in 2006, but those updates were not enough. It was clear that something needed to be done to bring this community back to life. The D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development transferred management duties to Vesta in 2014. In 2017, Vesta partnered with the Park Southern Residents’ Council to purchase the property with the aim of restoring Park Southern to the proud stature it once held. Recognizing the potential in revitalizing the property, Vesta and PSRC embarked on a redevelopment plan to transform it into a modern community that would cater to the needs of both current and future residents.
Vesta and the PSRC’s vision for the redevelopment was to create a vibrant, energy-efficient, and modern community that would provide affordable housing opportunities to residents in the Washington, D.C. area. With a plan in place, Vesta began working with Marous Brothers Construction on the redevelopment. Every aspect of the redevelopment was thoughtfully tailored to cater to the needs of both current and future tenants. While apartments were renovated, residents were relocated on-site to temporary apartments; alleviating the stress of having to move off-site. Vesta managed in-house the relocation process, while also providing moving services for residents to ease the temporary relocation process.
No part of the building was left untouched. The apartments were reinvented from the ground up; including new flooring, cabinetry and countertops, energy-efficient appliances, new windows and entry way doors, LED lighting, and energy efficient plumbing fixtures, as well as brand new HVAC systems that allow residents greater control of their unit temperatures. The building’s mechanical systems underwent a complete transformation, involving the installation of a new boiler system and the addition of solar carports to harness clean energy for the community. The main lobby also underwent a restructuring, optimizing the leasing process and ensuring privacy for tenants and prospects.
The solar carports not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also offer tenants the opportunity to partake in a Solar for All program, leading to reduced electric bills. A captivating mural, designed by a local artist, graces the main lobby, symbolizing the beauty of the neighborhood and its residents. Additional conveniences and security measures were added to the community and a new mail room that includes a package locker system was installed, controlled fob access to all entry and exit points of the building. Laundry facilities were also upgraded complete with smartphone notifications for completed cycles. The community also boasts new recreational spaces, including a playground, basketball court, and ample green areas for relaxation and leisure. A Resident Services Coordinator is also on site to provide services and programs for residents year-round.
With over $87 million invested in the project, every aspect of the building was meticulously redesigned and upgraded to meet contemporary standards. The goal was to not only restore the building but also revitalize the entire neighborhood, preserving its history and culture while providing a high-quality living experience for its inhabitants. Vesta was successful in completing the redevelopment on time during the global pandemic.
The transformation of this community represents a shining example of what can be achieved when residents and industry leaders collaborate to invest in infrastructure. The entire project preserves and honors the rich history and culture of the neighborhood while providing an upgraded living experience for its inhabitants. The improved aesthetics have positively influenced the perception of the area and instilled a sense of pride among residents, fostering a positive and uplifting atmosphere throughout the community.
With the successful completion of the 800 Southern Avenue redevelopment project, a new chapter has been written in the history of the community. What was once a neglected and dilapidated building has been transformed into a modern and vibrant living space that meets the needs of its residents. The vision of Vesta and PSRC to revitalize the property has been realized, resulting in a remarkable transformation that has far-reaching effects on the neighborhood.
