New neighborhood rejoins three New Haven communities

The Route 34 corridor is a long, narrow stretch of land which separates the West River, Dwight and Hill neighborhoods in New Haven. It has been the site of recent development after being vacant since the 1950s, when it was proposed to be a highway.


Kenneth Boroson Architects was contracted by a partnership of two non-profit organizations, the NHP Foundation and the West River Self Help Investment Plan (WRSHIP), to design a new neighborhood on 4.3 vacant acres. The property is bordered by Ella Grasso Boulevard, Tyler Street, Legion Avenue, and Martin Luther King Boulevard/North Frontage Road.


The new community (formerly known as MLK/Tyler Street Family Housing) includes a total of 56 rental units and an office meeting center in 11 buildings. Street-level parking accommodates 60 vehicles. The site is adjacent to the International Peace Garden which will be further developed in a subsequent phase.


Apartments range from 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom. All of the structures are designed for “Passive House” certification in compliance with PHIUS+ criteria – an energy efficient building standard which will result in low utility bills.


All units are classified as affordable, with varying income requirements. The development received LIHTC funding (low-income housing tax credits) from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA).

Type:

New construction designed to meet Passive House certification


Program:

Eleven separate buildings including 56 dwellings and one Community Meeting Center


Area:

4.3-acre site


Construction Cost:

$21,575,965


Project Status:

Under construction