Weatherization Efforts
In September 2016, in collaboration with the Travis County Housing Services (TCHS) and through the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) , HATC was able to address the high energy consumption of Carson Creek Duplexes . Additionally, WAP sought to improve the health and reduce safety risk of residents through a companion U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) initiative.
The weatherization process provided 13 Carson Creek homes with new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning duct work; increased attic insulation; solar window screens; door and window weather-stripping; and ventilation fans. In a few cases, inefficient appliances and heating /cooling units were replaced with high efficiency models.
Rehabilitation Efforts
Built in 1980, Alexander Oaks and Summit Oaks Apartments located in the suburban settings of Southwest and Northwest Travis County collectively total 75 duplex style affordable housing apartments.
Over time, these affordable housing communities faced deterioration and decline. As a result, HATC applied for funding and in July 2017 received a reservation of 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)via the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs’ (TDHCA) Texas Housing Credit Program At-Risk Pool. The allocation of $901,883 in Tax Credits allowed HATC to leverage $10.4 million to rehabilitate Alexander Oaks and Summit Oaks Apartments.
The rehabilitation efforts support the agency’s 44-year commitment to improve the quality of life for Travis County low-income families and individuals.
Capital Improvements
Additionally, HATC Board of Commissioners dedicated $250,000 of internal resources to complete much needed capital improvements at Manor Town Apartments located in Manor, Texas. Manor Town is a two story-33 unit monolithic apartment building for seniors and persons with disabilities.
The capital improvements include replacement or repair to building systems such as the roof, sidewalks, and the parking lots. Additionally, upgrades to the building’s elevator, exterior paint, landscaping and property monument signs are also included in the improvement plan. The project is estimated to be completed by May 25, 2019.
Upcoming Rehabilitation Efforts
Presently, staff is working to secure funding from the City of Austin and TDHCA for the rehabilitation of Eastern Oaks Apartments located in Northeastern Travis County. The rehabilitation project is expected to on par with the upgrades at Alexander Oaks and Summit Oaks Apartments.