St. Elizabeths East is a landmark mixed-income residential community located in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The project represents a transformative adaptive reuse of the historic CT Campus buildings, marking a significant first phase in the broader redevelopment of the St. Elizabeths East Campus. This vision was born from a collaborative partnership between the local neighborhood, the District, the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), Flaherty & Collins Properties, and RedBrick, LLC. Since forming in 2014, this partnership has focused on revitalizing the Anacostia and East-of-the-River areas while building local capacity to drive ongoing community development.
The development provides 252 units of high-quality rental housing, with a significant portion specifically designated for households at or below 50% of the Area Median Income. By rehabilitating historic structures into modern residences, the project serves a diverse range of D.C. residents, from seniors to large families. The inclusion of larger floor plans specifically caters to family needs, while the ground-level spaces provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs to offer services, further integrating the project into the fabric of the neighborhood. This complex undertaking was made possible through a diverse array of funding, including Low Income Housing Tax Credits, Historic Tax Credits, Tax-Exempt Bonds, and support from the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
Beyond providing housing, St. Elizabeths East functions as a hub for wellness and resident services. The lower level of the center building houses common areas dedicated to education-based activities, arts and cultural programming, and a 24-hour fitness center. Residents also have access to a campus swimming pool and specialized support, including services for 13 permanent supportive housing units provided by Community Connections. With its blend of historic preservation and modern social infrastructure, the community stands as a model for inclusive urban revitalization that honors the heritage of the District while providing a secure, service-rich environment for its residents.
For more information: Mayor Bowser Releases DC Housing Preservation Strike Force Report
