Once the site of a homeless encampment—today an energetic example of the success that’s possible when people listen, understand, and help solve challenges on behalf of their community.
Partners and community members gathered to cut the ribbon on Birdsong—the brand new development that provides families in Phoenix with new affordable apartments, community amenities, classes—and all within a net-zero design. It’s a collaboration between the Arizona Department of Housing, The City of Phoenix, the Boys & Girls Club of Phoenix and national housing developer Vecino Group. Today, Maryvale neighborhood families are now realizing the dream of having a brand-new home of their very own—one that’s both affordable and sustainable.
“This is the best part of our work,” said Vecino Group Director of Supportive Housing, Heather Bradley-Geary. “After the many months of planning and the efforts of so many people, to be able to see folks moving in and their happiness with having a home—it’s wonderful. This is truly the mission of Vecino—and the collective teamwork of Phoenix and the ADOH made Birdsong possible.”
Located at 6626 West McDowell Road, Birdsong’s 12 townhomes provide 72 three- and four-bedroom apartments, each with in-unit laundry. 54 units will offer affordable rents set at 40%, 50% and 60% average median gross income (AMGI). The remaining 18 will be market rate apartments. Neighborhood amenities include an on-site fitness center, a designated clubhouse with a community room and full kitchen, a gated resident pool, shaded playground and ample green space. outdoor seating and walking areas. Envolve will oversee property management through on-premise offices. Services such as after-school tutoring are made possible through the Boys & Girls Club.
The development is also ground-breaking through its integrated approaches toward sustainability. Its net-zero elements include fully electrified buildings (heating, cooling, water heating, washer & dryer), xeriscaped property (for low water use), and photovoltaic panels on rooftops to offset electric usage. Each residential building will exceed the energy efficiency standards by reducing electric and water usage.
“This presented some really unique challenges for our team,” said Baxter Reecer, President of Vecino Design. “Specifically, creating a development that strives to reach a net-zero goal for Phoenix, where the environment can reach some intense levels. But with careful planning and keeping a focus on what was possible, we were able to get there—and without sacrificing the experience and comfort of our residents.”
The $28 Million development was made possible through an allocation of 9% federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) from the Arizona Department of Housing and solar investment tax credits. An equity investment from Boston Financial Investment Management/J.P. Morgan Chase and construction/permanent financing through Citi Community Capital and Freddie Mac.
