You may have seen the recent article in The Washington Post: How far should government push a private company to serve the public good? Our plan is to redevelop Brookland Manor into a new mixed-use community that will include 373 permanently reserved units for very-low income families, which goes far beyond the required affordability.
The Ford family and MidCity have a long and strong record of developing and managing affordable housing in the District, a record that we are proud of and committed to. The new RIA will build on that legacy while renewing this northeast neighborhood with modern residences and retail. As a private sector housing provider, we are creating new living options at RIA for residents of all incomes, while helping address District’s housing needs.
Background:
MidCity was founded by Eugene F. Ford, Sr. in 1965 and since it’s inception has focused on providing safe, decent and socially supportive affordable housing. We have developed and rehabilitated more than 15,000 units of market-rate and affordable housing and have managed more than 40 apartment communities in 12 states serving a wide range of families, predominately those with low and very low incomes.
Unlike many development and investment firms, MidCity has a long-term investment focus that shows in our commitment to the communities where we are invested and also in the relationships that we maintain.
We founded the Community Services Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides social services for residents at company properties. Each year, we spend more than $1 million to support this supplemental programing at our Washington-area properties. Last year, nearly 12,000 residents participated in MidCity sponsored programs, including job training, adult computer literacy, food programs, after-school tutoring, healthcare services and cultural heritage initiatives.
Build First Approach:
MidCity will follow the principle of “build first”. This means that no residents will be displaced. The first phase includes two buildings: a 200-unit senior building for residents 62 and over and a 131-unit multifamily building. Both of these building will be four-story, elevator buildings with underground parking, indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, controlled access with key fobs and security cameras and new and modern fixtures and finishes. The senior building will offer amenities specifically designated for senior needs and an outdoor garden area for relaxation. The multifamily building will include an outdoor pool and a roof-top deck with grilling stations and family use areas.
