AUSTIN, Texas — Construction has begun on a new affordable housing complex in southeast Austin, the City of Austin Housing Department said on Wednesday.
The development, named The Roz, was approved by the Housing Finance Corporation Board last year, with $16.3 million coming from the 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credits program and $5.5 million from the city’s 2022 General Obligation Bonds.
The Roz will be located at 3432 Parker Lane, near Interstate 35 and Ben White Boulevard, and will feature 100 studio units. All units will be fully furnished and will include all utilities paid.
The complex will serve individuals experiencing chronic homelessness or those who are at risk of homelessness. Of the 100 units, 20 will be set aside for families at or below 30% median family income, 60 units for families at or below 50% median family income and 20 units for those at or below 60% median family income.
Every unit will have a dedicated voucher, meaning residents can live at the property regardless of their ability to pay.
Community amenities will include a library, cyber lounge, community multi-purpose room, outdoor seating areas, community laundry and offices. There will also be meeting rooms for supportive services coordinators and health professionals.
Volunteers of America will serve as property manager, and Family Endeavors will be the service provider.
The city said the name, The Roz, means “pretty rose” and is a nod to the namesake of the adjacent park, Mabel Davis, who was instrumental in supporting gardens throughout Austin.
“Developing new supportive housing residences is crucial as homelessness increases locally and across the country. Factors such as the lack of affordable housing and high rent prices contribute to this increase,” explained Mandy DeMayo, interim director for the Housing Department. “The Roz directly addresses homelessness and adds to the city’s growing stock of deeply affordable, supportive housing.”
Developer SGI Ventures partnered with the Austin Housing Finance Corporation on the project.
“Permanent supportive housing with wrap-around supportive and health care services is the key to resolving the homelessness crisis in Austin,” said Sally Gaskin, president of SGIV Ventures.
The new complex is expected to be finished by spring of 2026.
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