New Construction Coincides with Providence Community Housing’s 20th Anniversary
April 8, 2026, NEW ORLEANS —
Providence Community Housing, Columbia Residential, and the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) broke ground today on a new affordable housing community for seniors. The new construction located at 3401 Erato Street (the site of the former BW Cooper Housing Development) will create 103 high-quality one-bedroom homes reserved for low-income seniors aged 62 and older.
The development will incorporate an existing building on the property, which will be repurposed as the administrative headquarters and serve as the primary entrance to the new senior residential community. As part of the project, Clio Street will be reconstructed and transferred to the City of New Orleans, improving connectivity within the surrounding neighborhood. The new senior housing community is expected to welcome its first residents in spring 2027.
“Today, we are addressing one of our city’s most urgent needs — the demand for safe, sustainable, and affordable housing for seniors,” said Terri North, President and CEO of Providence Community Housing. “For 20 years, Providence Community Housing has helped transform lives and communities by developing and preserving affordable homes for families and seniors. We also help older adults maintain their independence by connecting them to healthcare, nutrition, transportation, and other community-based supports.”
Low-income seniors aged 62 and older earning at or below 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) will be eligible to apply for housing at the Erato Street residences. Project-Based Section 8 vouchers provided by HANO will be available for all units.
“HANO is proud to partner with Providence Community Housing for this impactful project that will ensure safe, sustainable, and dignified housing for our senior community,” said HANO Executive Director Marjorianna Willman. “This development aligns with our long-term goal of creating essential and stable homes that offer easy access to vital supportive services and programs specifically designed for seniors.”
Columbia Residential will oversee the day-to-day on-site property management and maintenance, including shared community spaces such as resident gathering areas and gardens. Residents will also benefit from energy-efficient appliances and amenities, including a business center and fitness center. Designed with resilience and sustainability in mind, the development will feature a fortified roof and meet Enterprise Green Communities certification standards.
“We are proud to build on our long-standing partnership with HANO and Providence Community Housing, a collaboration that now spans more than 10 years, to deliver high-quality, affordable housing for seniors in New Orleans,” said Carmen Chubb of Columbia Residential. “This development reflects our continued commitment to creating communities where older adults can live with dignity, maintain independence, and stay connected to the neighborhoods they call home.”
“As the city’s population ages and housing costs continue to rise, projects like the senior residences at Erato Street help ensure that seniors can remain in the communities they helped build and live with dignity, stability, and access to the resources they need to thrive,” said North. “Providence remains dedicated to rebuilding neighborhoods, strengthening communities, and ensuring that seniors and families have safe, stable places to call home.”
The $39 million development is financed through federal 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs), tax-exempt bonds, and PRIME-3 funds administered by the Louisiana Housing Corporation. Equity and construction financing are provided by Regions, with permanent financing from Fannie Mae and additional support from the City of New Orleans.
To learn more about the new affordable housing construction at 3401 Erato Street, click here.
