News

Green Light For Major Changes For Park Morton On Lower Georgia Avenue

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jason Yuckenberg
(202) 727-5820

Washington, DC: The DC Council unanimously gave a green light today to moving forward to redevelop the Park Morton public housing complex as mixed-income, moderate density housing.

The redevelopment plan for Park Morton also includes affordable housing, relocation assistance, and a guaranteed right of return for current residents.

Councilmember Graham authored the resolution designating the Park Morton new community in February 2006.

On December 18, 2007, Councilmember Graham secured an additional $3 million in targeted funding for temporary-rental accommodations to move a percentage of Park Morton residents, as necessary for the phased renovation, and other costs. Approximately 1/3 of the residents will be temporarily relocated to initiate construction. A request for proposals for the relocation and construction will issue in a matter of weeks.

The approved plan is to create 477 units of mixed-income, moderate density housing at Park Morton, including 153 replacement low-income rental units, 7 homeownership units for current Park Morton residents, and 317 workforce housing and market-rate units. The Park Morton plan includes more park and community open space at Park Morton, and increased public safety and security.

"We commend the Mayor and his staff, which worked closely with residents and the community to develop a plan that protects current residents and ensures a better quality of life for the neighborhood", said Councilmember Graham.

Park Morton, in the Park View community in Ward 1, is bordered by Georgia Avenue on the west, Warder Street on the east, Lamont Street on the south and Park Road on the north.

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