SHREVEPORT, La. -- A new affordable housing development taking shape in Shreveport is expected to provide relief for dozens of residents struggling to find suitable housing options.
Construction on Fairfield Estates II has reached roughly the halfway point and is transforming the site of Wilkinson Terrace, the city's original public housing project. Unlike the former development, the new community is designed to offer modern, safe and sustainable housing while promoting additional investment and redevelopment in the surrounding area.
When completed, Fairfield Estates II will include 52 residential units consisting of one- and two-bedroom homes. The development is being built in the Highland neighborhood at Southern Avenue and Prospect Street. It's across the street from the project's first phase, a 12-unit apartment complex.
According to the Housing Authority of the City of Shreveport, the need for affordable housing remains significant throughout the community.
"We're probably 25,000 units short of affordable housing here in Shreveport," said Executive Director Bobby Collins. "That means we have 25,000 to 30,000 people paying more than 30% of their income toward rent and utilities, which makes them rent-burdened."
The Housing Authority plans to accept applications through two programs: workforce housing and a project-based voucher program. Approximately 2,000 people are already on waiting lists for housing vouchers and could be eligible for residency once construction is completed.
The project is expected to wrap up in March and will feature updated amenities designed to improve long-term sustainability and quality of life for residents.
"When you see housing being built now, it's not something that as a community, as a renter, anybody is going to be embarrassed about 15 years from now," Collins said. "It's going to be sustainable. It's going to still look nice. We make sure we manage to a higher standard, both in terms of what residents are receiving and what residents' responsibilities are."
Funding for the development comes from multiple sources, including Caddo Parish, the federal government and the City of Shreveport.
Construction began in November. Over the coming months, crews will continue weatherproofing the buildings, including the installation of windows, doors and roofing.
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