North Austin News

The City of Austin Housing Department has announced the commencement of construction for The Roz, a new affordable and supportive housing project aimed at addressing homelessness in Austin. Situated on 1.65 acres at 3435 Parker Lane in District 3, this development will provide housing to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness or those at risk.

The Roz is a result of collaboration between SGI Ventures and the Austin Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC). SGI Ventures has been involved in the affordable housing sector since 1996, developing over 1,000 units. Saigebrook, O-SDA Industries, and New Hope Housing are serving as development consultants.

Named after Mabel Davis Park's namesake, The Roz signifies "pretty rose" and "an acclaimed protector," reflecting its mission to offer stable housing for vulnerable residents. Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director for the Housing Department, emphasized the importance of such developments: “Developing new supportive housing residences is crucial as homelessness increases locally and across the country.”

Sally Gaskin, president of SGI Ventures, highlighted the significance of permanent supportive housing: “Permanent supportive housing with wrap-around supportive and health care services is the key to resolving the homelessness crisis in Austin,” she said.

The Roz will feature 100 fully furnished units with all utilities included. Twenty units are designated for families earning up to 30% Median Family Income (MFI), sixty units for those earning up to 50% MFI, and twenty units for families earning up to 60% MFI. Each unit comes with a dedicated voucher ensuring affordability regardless of income.

Amenities include high-efficiency appliances and lighting, resilient flooring, community spaces like a library and cyber lounge, laundry facilities, offices for support services coordinators and health professionals. Volunteers of America will manage the property while Family Endeavors provides services.

Funding sources include $16.3 million from Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LITHC) program and $5.5 million from AHFC through General Obligation Bonds. Additionally, sixty project-based vouchers were provided by AHFC along with forty from HACA.

Gaskin expressed gratitude for the partnership: “It is through the mission-driven collaborative efforts...that developments like The Roz are possible.” Construction began in October with completion expected by Spring 2026.