The Houston Housing Authority just announced relocation plans for the city’s oldest public housing complex.
HOUSTON — Houston’s Cuney Homes, the city’s oldest public housing complex, is set to receive a major $50 million renovation funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, but residents say they need more information about their temporary relocation as moves could begin as early as next month.
The 90-year-old property, which opened in 1938, has provided affordable housing for lower-income families for generations but is now showing significant signs of age. The Houston Housing Authority recently announced a five-phase renovation plan that will run from now through 2032, beginning with demolition of buildings on the property’s east side to make way for new family and senior housing.
“I was born and raised here so I watched these apartments go from being something to nothing so it definitely needs a renovation,” said one resident who has lived at Cuney Homes her entire life.
The relocation plan is scheduled to begin in November, with residents moving out in phases. According to the Housing Authority, they will meet with every household to discuss moving dates, packing materials, and deposits. However, residents say they still lack crucial details about where they’ll be temporarily housed.
“Let people know ahead of time what’s going on because we’re already poor so for us that’s a stressor,” one resident explained.
A survey conducted with residents shows that more than 70% want to return to Cuney Homes once renovations are complete. Those who prefer not to return can qualify for vouchers to rent elsewhere.
“I really wish them the best. I wish they fix it up. I’m not coming back. I want to stay gone,” said one resident.
But some residents remain skeptical about the process.
“You want to come back we can come back here, but I don’t trust that,” said one man.
The uncertainty is particularly concerning for residents with special needs. One man who has lived at Cuney Homes for six months and uses a prosthetic is worried about accessing medical appointments and maintaining mobility during the transition.
“A lot I’ve been going through this whole process and then they throw this bomb on us,” he said.
The Housing Authority addressed some concerns late in the afternoon, stating in a statement that all temporary housing will remain in the Third Ward for people who want to stay nearby, though residents can choose to relocate elsewhere if they prefer. The authority also promised that those who return after renovations will be able to live in modern, energy-efficient homes in the historic community.
Houston Housing Authority Reinforces Resident Choice and Support in Cuney Homes Redevelopment
The Houston Housing Authority (HHA) is committed to ensuring that every Cuney Homes resident has meaningful choices and robust support throughout the Third Ward Choice Neighborhoods Initiative (CNI). No one is being “forced out” without options, assistance, or a clear path home. No resident will be left behind or without housing during this transformation and dramatic improvement of Cuney Homes.
The redevelopment of Cuney Homes is following a build-first, phased plan that prioritizes resident stability and minimizes disruption. Because the work involves complete reconstruction of all buildings and infrastructure, some temporary relocations are unavoidable to ensure safety and progress. Each household will receive personalized relocation counseling, moving expense coverage, and at least three comparable housing options. Residents may choose to relocate temporarily to another HHA community, a Project-Based Voucher development, or a private-market unit using a Tenant Protection Voucher.
Every effort is being made to identify temporary homes within the Third Ward for residents who wish to remain nearby. Others who prefer to explore different neighborhoods will also be supported in making those moves. All choices will be respected.
Under the federal CNI requirements, all replacement housing must be built in the Third Ward—ensuring that those who wish to return will have the opportunity to live in modern, energy-efficient homes within their historic community.
The initiative also creates employment and contracting opportunities with at least 25% of total labor hours on each project to be performed by Section 3 workers, with a minimum of 5% by targeted Section 3 workers.
“This redevelopment is creating choices for residents.” said Jamie Bryant, HHA president and CEO. “Our focus is on people first, ensuring each family’s transition is smooth, their wishes respected.”