North Austin News

The City of Austin Housing Department has announced the opening of Parker Lane Apartments, a new affordable housing development located at 2105 Parker Lane in Southeast Austin's District 3. The property features 135 units aimed at providing housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or those at risk.

Managed by Foundation Communities, the complex offers amenities designed to ensure safety and comfort, including clear sightlines, bright colors, outdoor play areas for children, green spaces, a learning center, a food pantry, and laundry facilities. A portion of the units is specifically reserved for families with children who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Additional units cater to families earning below specific percentages of the area's median family income (MFI).

"The construction of this new community demonstrates the growing need for affordable housing and the City's ongoing efforts to increase affordable housing options for low-income working families," said Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director for the Housing Department. She emphasized that financial support from Project Connect aids in preventing displacement as Austin enhances its transit infrastructure.

Foundation Communities Senior Design Manager Anna Lake-Smith noted that "principles of Trauma Informed Design" were used in developing Parker Lane Apartments to create a welcoming environment through features like clearly marked entrances and ample lighting.

The development occupies land previously owned by Parker Lane United Methodist Church (UMC), which sought partners aligned with its mission after closing its doors. Brooks Schuelke from UMC expressed satisfaction with partnering with Foundation Communities due to their comprehensive services and focus on family-friendly housing options.

Funding for Parker Lane Apartments included $15 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) and approximately $9.7 million from City funds and Project Connect dollars. Other contributions came from various public funding sources and private entities such as Wells Fargo and St. David’s Foundation.

Walter Moreau, Executive Director for Foundation Communities, acknowledged the critical role played by city investments: "We could not build the Parker (Lane) Apartments and new learning center without the investment and commitment from the City and AHFC."

Parker Lane Apartments is strategically located near public transportation routes within Project Connect's anti-displacement eligibility area.

For more information on affordable housing resources in Austin, visit www.austintexas.gov/housing.