AUSTIN, TX – The City of Austin Housing Department is excited to announce the financing of the latest affordable, supportive housing residence, The Roz. Once constructed, the residences will sit on 1.65 acres located at 3435 Parker Lane in District 3 on the city’s Southeast side, directly adjacent to Mabel Davis District Park and within a half mile of an Imagine Austin Center.  

The Roz will serve individuals experiencing chronic homelessness or who are at risk of homelessness. Its development is the result of a collaboration between SGI Ventures and the Austin Housing Finance Corporation. SGI Ventures is a developer and tax credit and private activity bond consultant. It has been active in the affordable housing industry since 1996 and has developed over 1,000 affordable units.  

Saigebrook, O-SDA Industries, and New Hope Housing are all acting as development consultants.  

The name, The Roz, is fitting, given this new community’s goal. Roz is of English origin and means “pretty rose.” It is a nod to the namesake of the adjacent park, Mabel Davis, who was instrumental in supporting gardens throughout the city. The name also refers to “an acclaimed protector,” embodying the critical role this development will play in providing long-term, safe, and stable housing for some of Austin’s most vulnerable residents. 

“Developing new supportive housing residences is crucial as homelessness increases locally and across the country. Factors such as the lack of affordable housing and high rent prices contribute to this increase,” explains Mandy DeMayo, Interim Director for the Housing Department. “The Roz directly addresses homelessness and adds to the city’s growing stock of deeply affordable, supportive housing.” 

Sally Gaskin, president of SGIV Ventures, agrees. “Permanent supportive housing with wrap-around supportive and health care services is the key to resolving the homelessness crisis in Austin,” she says. 

All units will be fully furnished and will include all utilities paid. Of the 100 available units, 20 will be set aside for families at or below 30 percent MFI (Median Family Income), 60 units for families at or below 50 percent MFI and 20 units for those at or below 60 percent MFI. Every unit will have a dedicated voucher, ensuring residents can live at the property regardless of their ability to pay.  

Each of the 100 studios will have amenities such as high-efficiency appliances and lighting, hard surface counter tops in the kitchens and bathrooms, and resilient hard surface flooring. Community amenities will include a library, cyber lounge, community multi-purpose room, outdoor seating areas, community laundry and offices. There will also be meeting rooms for supportive services coordinators and health professionals. Volunteers of America will serve as property manager and Family Endeavors will be the service provider. 

Credit: Rendering of The Roz, courtesy of SGI Ventures Inc.