The historic Third Ward is set to witness a transformative redevelopment as the city recently approved an ordinance authorizing the purchase and sale of a 62,500 square feet plot of land at 2209 Emancipation Ave.
The land will be sold to The National Housing Partnership Foundation for redevelopment, marking a significant step towards revitalizing the area.
The NHP Foundation, a nonprofit real estate organization dedicated to preserving and creating affordable housing, will spearhead the redevelopment project. The envisioned development, named Gospel Square, aims to become a vibrant mixed-use community within the Third Ward Complete Community.
Gospel Square is poised to offer a blend of residential and commercial spaces, including a cafe, recording studio, courtyard, and new affordable housing units. Notably, the former Wesley African Methodist Episcopal Church on the site will undergo extensive renovations to house a community center, event performance space, and a gospel museum.
Up to 70 new condos will be built next to the historic Wesley AME Church at 2209 Emancipation Avenue by the City of Houston in collaboration with a developer. A variety of efficient, one- and two-bedroom condominiums are available in the development, with prices that will make them affordable for buyers making up to 120% of the area median income (AMI). The Harris County Housing Finance Corporation outlines that the 60% AMI limit ranges from $33,300 for a one-person household to $62,760 for an eight-person household.
In addition to providing much-needed housing, Gospel Square will feature 10,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space and parking, catering to the needs of both residents and visitors. The upper floors will offer office conference space, coworking areas for lease, and rental units, contributing to the project’s dynamic and multifunctional nature.
The redevelopment comes with a substantial budget of $26.8 million, with the city’s land purchase price accounting for $3.8 million and the remaining $23 million to be funded by the NHP Foundation. This investment underscores the commitment to revitalizing the Third Ward and creating a thriving community hub celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
The church’s renovations should be finished in July.