The property covers three city blocks bordered by West Drew Street, McCart Avenue, West Bolt Street and Lubbock Avenue. It can house an estimated 140 families in a variety of duplex, triplex and quadruplex units. While the mix is still under discussion, units could be divided among domestic violence victims and families exiting homelessness, according to a press release.
The real estate acquisition is a public-private partnership and is estimated to cost around $11 million, according to the city’s press release. Various Fort Worth-based foundations and nonprofit organizations have committed to help raise the funds.
“As we face a crisis of family homelessness across the country, we are fortunate in Fort Worth to have nonprofit and philanthropic partners that are committed to working alongside the city to ensure we are investing in the needed housing and services for our most vulnerable,” Mayor Mattie Parker said in a press release.
Contributing organizations include the property co-owners One Safe Space ($5 million) and Tarrant County Samaritan House Inc. ($4.1 million) as well as the Paulos Foundation ($800,000). Rainwater, Morris, Amon Carter and Sid Richardson foundations have also committed $1.1 million to the project.
Council Member Elizabeth Beck, who represents District 9, called the development an act of divine intervention during the Feb. 28 housing finance corporation board meeting.
"This project will transform lives, build stronger communities and improve outcomes for our most vulnerable children,” Beck said in a press release.
According to the city, homelessness saw a 50% increase in the last quarter of 2022 when compared to the last quarter of 2021. The project will help provide more affordable housing for the city.
According to Directions Home Manager Tara Perez, some units could be available for leasing as soon as this year.
