Tucson Standard

The City of Tucson Housing & Community Development Department (COT-HCDD) is preparing to submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of funds as part of a significant housing project. The department aims to secure Choice Neighborhoods Initiative funds and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds for the Tucson House Rehabilitation Project.

This initiative involves real estate asset repositioning through HUD's Section 18 Disposition program, focusing on renovations at Tucson House Apartments, the city's largest public housing site located within the Miracle Mile Historic District. "Through the Section 18 disposition, the Tucson House will be transferred via a long-term ground lease to Thrive Tucson House, LLC," according to project details.

Current residents will transition to other affordable housing units under the Housing Choice Voucher program during renovations. Once completed, Project-Based Vouchers will facilitate housing provision at the renovated complex, with additional supportive services offered on-site.

The transformation plan includes reconfiguring apartment units in a 376,760 square foot complex into 358 affordable housing units with improved amenities and spaces. No expansion or major structural changes are planned outside minor outdoor demolitions for grounds improvements.

Funding sources include $26.4 million from Choice Neighborhoods Initiative funds and $1 million from HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds through COT-HCDD. Additional funding is anticipated from various sources including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and State Housing Trust Funds.

The City has determined that "the project will have no significant impact on the human environment," negating the need for an Environmental Impact Statement under NEPA guidelines. Public comments on this determination are invited until March 3, 2025.

HUD's approval process allows objections based on specific criteria outlined in federal regulations, with potential objectors directed to contact HUD offices for more information regarding objection procedures.

Ann Chanecka serves as Director of COT-HCDD and certifies compliance with federal court jurisdiction related to environmental review responsibilities.

For further details or assistance in languages other than English, residents can contact (520) 791-4171.