Phoenix Celebrates Grand Opening Of New Affordable Housing Property

Press release from the City of Phoenix:

March 2, 2021

The city of Phoenix Housing Department is celebrating the grand opening of Monroe Gardens Apartments replacing the aged A.L. Krohn East public housing complex built in the 1960s.

“Our vision to create a stronger and more vibrant Phoenix starts with increased housing options for all residents regardless of income level or family size and Monroe Gardens offers just that," said Mayor Kate Gallego. “I am proud to see this project come to fruition and offer my sincere welcome to the residents who will call it home."

Monroe Gardens Apartments, 1441 E. Monroe St., are located in the Eastlake Community near downtown Phoenix. The new development transformed 38 outdated public housing units into 78 project-based Section 8 rental assistance units. Residents continue to pay 30 percent of their income for rent and maintain the same basic rights as in the public housing program.

“The grand opening of Monroe Gardens Apartments is an important step towards building a safer, inclusive city," said Councilmember Carlos Garcia. “I am proud to have these apartments and families in my district and will continue to advocate for affordable housing for all Phoenicians."

Monroe Gardens Apartments consist of five buildings, with one-to five-bedroom units, and are equipped with modern amenities designed for families. A partnership with APS Solar Communities Program will add solar-covered carports to the property and provide tenants with a $15 monthly bill credit on their energy bill.

Eighteen public housing families have relocated back into the new development to enjoy the modern, energy-efficient units and amenities that include a community room, computer lab, ramadas, BBQ grills and a covered playground. This property is also conveniently located near a light rail station in the downtown Eastlake Community.

This $20 million redevelopment benefits the residents, the neighborhood and the city by replacing aged housing with safe, modern and affordable housing. Its modern design helps revitalize the surrounding neighborhood and encourages additional investment in the community.

The construction of the new property was made possible through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Rental Assistance Demonstration Program, a public-private partnership using Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and a collaboration with developer Gorman & Company.

This press release was produced by the City of Phoenix. The views expressed here are the author’s own.