AUSTIN, Texas — Austin ISD and The NRP Group broke ground Friday on a mixed-income housing development on the site of a former East Austin school.
The ceremony took place at 4812 Gonzales Street, the 18-acre site of the former Anita Ferrales Coy school. Phase 1 of the project will include 341 units across two multi-story buildings.
Half of the units will be rent and income-restricted. Ten percent will be reserved for households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income, with another 40% set aside for those earning up to 80% AMI. The remaining units will be offered at market rate.
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The project is specifically designed to house essential workers, including AISD teachers, bus drivers and staff.
“This development is designed to expand quality housing options for cost-burdened residents and essential workers,” The NRP Group said.
Speakers at Friday’s groundbreaking included Austin City Council Member Jose Velasquez of District 3, AISD Superintendent Matias Segura, and representatives from project financial partners Goldman Sachs and Clarion Partners.
The site sits within a federally designated Opportunity Zone, a classification established under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 intended to encourage investment in historically underserved communities.
Plans for the development include a publicly accessible green space with preserved heritage trees, walking paths, and art installations from local artists, alongside resident amenities including a pool, fitness center and co-working lounge.