$100M Henson Ridge Gives Hope to Affordable Housing Seekers

WASHINGTON, DC-Henson Ridge, a multifaceted 600-unit affordable housing community in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Southeast DC–has opened its doors to tenants now that its $100 million redevelopment endeavor has reached completion. The property replaces two former public housing developments known as the Frederick Douglass and Stanton Dwellings residences, which were originally developed as temporary lodgings for World War II-era workers, and accounted for 650 units. Financing for the endeavor originated from the leveraging of a $29.9 million HUD HOPE VI grant.

Situated at Alabama Avenue and Stanton Road, Henson Ridge is named for one-time owner of the 24-acre parcel, former slave Tobias Henson. Area low- to moderate-income residents seeking housing at Henson Ridge–which features 320 for-sale units in addition to the rental components–have a variety of options to choose from among the 280 rental properties, which include townhouses, 42 bungalows reserved for seniors and 28 stacked-flat apartments. The property also features an adult training facility, a new community center, open spaces and parks.