The City of Austin plans to submit a request for the release of Project Based Vouchers (PBV) funds to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on or about October 17, 2024. The funds will support the Bailey at Berkman project located at 6405 Berkman Drive in Austin, Texas. This initiative involves acquiring land, demolishing one single-family home, and constructing a new affordable multifamily development with 104 housing units. These units will be restricted to households earning between 30% and 60% of the Area Median Income. Of these, twenty-six units are designated as permanent supportive housing for households at risk of homelessness.
The project is set to use $9,478,560 from PBVs through the Housing Authority of the City of Austin over a period of 20 years. The total cost is estimated at approximately $29.3 million and includes tax credits from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). The development will feature a four-story residential building with amenities such as an attached clubhouse, exercise facility, elevators, and on-site management. Additionally, services provided by Hope through Housing Foundation will include social events, workforce training, personal wellness programs, and financial counseling.
The City has determined that "the project will have no significant impact on the human environment," negating the need for an Environmental Impact Statement under NEPA regulations. The Environmental Review Record (ERR) can be reviewed during business hours at their office or requested electronically or via mail.
Public comments regarding this review can be submitted until October 16, 2024. Comments should specify which notice they address and can be sent via mail or email to Dawn Perkins at dawn.perkins@austintexas.gov.
Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director for the City of Austin's certification process with HUD states her consent "to accept jurisdiction of Federal Courts if an action is brought" concerning environmental responsibilities compliance.
HUD allows objections to fund release within fifteen days following submission based on specific criteria including improper execution by certifying officers or unauthorized pre-approval activities by participants in the development process.
Potential objectors are advised to contact HUD's San Antonio Field Office via email for verification regarding objection deadlines.