New Housing Development Planned Near Downtown

A rendering of The Greenwood.  Courtesy City of Jackson.

(March 9, 2022 10:43 AM) The Jackson City Council last night approved the sale of property to developers planning an apartment project.  At their Tuesday, March 8 meeting, the Jackson City Council approved the sale of two vacant City-owned properties to MVAH Partners. Plans call for combining the lots on W. Wilkins Street with five other adjacent vacant lots on Greenwood Avenue for The Greenwood, a proposed 3 story, 51 unit workforce housing development.

The Greenwood will be comprised of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. All units will be energy-efficient and have modern amenities. MVAH Partners says the apartments will be income-based and affordable to Jackson’s young professionals, workforce and families.

The proposed $13 million investment will take shape in the Partnership Park residential neighborhood on Greenwood Avenue, between W. Biddle and W. Wilkins streets. This area, which centers around Austin Blair Park, has recently seen lots of investment from the City of Jackson with new sidewalks, improved roadways and a redesigned traffic circle. Blighted properties recently demolished by the City have also improved the look of the area.

The Greenwood will also be close walking distance to Downtown Jackson, meaning residents can take advantage of nearby shops, restaurants, parks, public transportation, health care and other amenities. Shane LaPorte, The City’s Director of Neighborhood and Economic Operations, says the proposed development will be a good fit for the neighborhood. “It’s exciting to see this type of economic development spreading from Downtown Jackson to our neighborhoods,” LaPorte said. “With a big need for more affordable housing in the community, we’re pleased to provide space for this type of project.”

MVAH Partners previously brought Jackson the Francis Senior Lofts on E. Wesley Street and continues to plan construction on The Blackstone, a proposed 4-story, 53 unit affordable housing development on N. Blackstone Street in Downtown Jackson.

With two vacant lots from the City secured, the development company still has to finalize property sales for five other lots, which are owned by the Community Action Agency. After all of the property is acquired, MVAH will seek local and State tax incentives to help make the development affordable.