New Updates on PD&R Edge

IN PRACTICE

Transforming a Historic Single-Room Occupancy Building in Chicago Into Affordable Apartments
In Chicago, the Holsten Real Estate Development Corporation recently completed the transformation of what was once the largest single-room occupancy supportive housing facility in the Midwest into 406 affordable studio apartments. Known as Lawson House, the historic structure is a 24-story building emblematic of the Art Deco architecture built in the city’s “Gold Coast” area in the 1930s. Since 2017, the building has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, helping the developer secure historic tax credits as part of the $129 million funding package needed to complete the renovation. The Chicago-Low Income Housing Trust Fund, which is primarily supported through fees paid through the city’s inclusionary housing program, funded over a quarter of the units.

RESEARCH

Medicare Advantage Coverage Among Individuals Receiving Federal Housing Assistance
A recent study commissioned by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and PD&R examined the prevalence of Medicare Advantage (MA) coverage among individuals who also receive federal housing assistance. Understanding MA coverage among older adults receiving federal housing assistance is important because this population faces disproportionately high rates of chronic conditions and healthcare utilization. The study determined that, compared with individuals enrolled in traditional Medicare plans, HUD-MA individuals were more likely to have lower incomes, belong to a racial or ethnic minority group, and demonstrate dual eligibility for Medicaid, suggesting the potential for providing coordinated services to enrollees.