Minvilla Manor Highlights Case Studies in Historic Rehabilitation and Community Development

Minvilla Manor Highlights Case Studies in Historic Rehabilitation and Community Development

HUD USER publishes a series of Case Study examples based on federal, state, and local strategies that increase affordable housing opportunities, integrate sustainable features and practices, and improve access to public transportation. The projects featured in these reports have demonstrated innovation through a multitude of partnerships and initiatives.

The most recent Case Study is the historic rehabilitation of Minvilla Manor in Knoxville, Tennessee. The 57-unit, Energy Star®-certified permanent supportive housing project unites the goals of historic preservation and community development in leveraging a “housing first” strategy to create housing opportunities for chronically homeless persons. The development team utilized Community Development Block Grant funds, as well as historic and low-income housing tax credits, to transform a derelict motel while honoring its early 20th century architectural traditions. The quality of the rehabilitation earned the project the 2011 National Trust/HUD Secretary’s Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation.

Resident retention rates exceed 90 percent at Minvilla Manor, demonstrating the potential that “housing first” programs have as a sustainable housing solution for chronically homeless persons. The resulting housing stability is a source of empowerment for the formerly homeless residents and the larger community has realized benefits of the project. The project also demonstrates the importance of the role of local leadership in garnering resources and providing critical leverage with which to address the housing needs of a most vulnerable population.

Visit HUD USER’s Case Studies Resource page to learn how the historic rehabilitation of Minvilla Manor is helping to improve the lives of residents and spur neighborhood revitalization in Knoxville’s “Downtown North.”