Stamford is pressing ahead with the second phase of the Oak Park affordable‑housing project, a multi‑year effort to replace the post‑World‑II veterans’ homes with modern, energy‑efficient townhomes and apartments. The redevelopment, overseen by the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) and the city’s Charter Oak Communities, aims to keep the complex fully affordable for low‑ and moderate‑income families.
Project scope and timeline
The original Oak Park, built in the 1940s, comprised 166 townhomes across 27 buildings on Ursula Place. After eight decades of use, the structures showed significant wear, prompting a full reconstruction. Phase 1, completed in February, delivered 61 new units—35 of them townhomes. Phase 2, which began in August, involves demolishing the remaining outdated townhomes and constructing 43 new units. The final phase is slated to start in early 2028, with the entire project expected to be finished by late 2027.
Affordability and eligibility
According to DOH Deputy Commissioner Julian Pierce, the new homes will be offered at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). In Stamford, that translates to a maximum annual income of roughly $82,300 for a family of two. The program also serves households earning as low as 25% of AMI, ensuring that the most vulnerable families have access to safe, stable housing.
Funding and community impact
The $120 million redevelopment draws from a mix of sources, including the Stamford Affordable Housing Trust Fund, federal HUD allocations, and state DOH contributions. Local residents have praised the effort. Charter Oak Communities Advisory Board member Bianca Shinn‑Desras, who grew up in Oak Park, recalled childhood challenges such as mold, mice, and inadequate heating. “Where we live profoundly influences how we live,” she said. “Housing is a fundamental social determinant of health, affecting safety, education, and the future of a generation.”
Benefits for families
Beyond the physical upgrades, the project reflects a broader commitment to family stability and community health. Modern, energy‑efficient designs lower utility costs, freeing more of a household’s limited budget for essentials. The mix of townhomes and a limited number of apartments offers flexibility for different family sizes while preserving the neighborhood’s traditional character.
Looking ahead
City officials and housing advocates view Oak Park’s transformation as a model for other municipalities seeking to revitalize aging affordable‑housing stock without displacing low‑income residents. As the second phase progresses, the focus remains on delivering quality homes that support families in achieving the foundation they need to thrive.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
