New Disability-Forward Housing Project Proposed for Avondale
Avondale, a vibrant neighborhood in Birmingham, is seeing an exciting new initiative that aims to bring more inclusive housing options to the community. A co-development project called The Kelsey Avondale is on the horizon, led by a San Francisco-based nonprofit known for advocating and developing affordable housing for individuals with disabilities. This will be the organization’s first project outside of California.
Planned for the locations at 4121 and 4131 Third Ave. S., the new facility is expected to house between 50 and 75 homes, alongside communal spaces designed to encourage interaction among residents. The Kelsey co-founder and CEO, Micaela Connery, stated that once residents move in, they will have access to inclusive concierge services that can help connect them with local resources.
Design and Development Timeline
As of now, a co-developer for the project has not yet been confirmed. However, David Baker Architects, a firm with offices in both Birmingham and San Francisco, has been brought on board for the concept design. The site has been under contract since early February, with plans in place to purchase it. Following the acquisition and additional funding—anticipated to be secured through a capital campaign—construction is set to begin in the fall of 2025.
The timeline suggests that resident services and project launches will take place in the winter of 2026, with the facility projected to welcome its first residents by spring of 2027.
Strategic Location
The location in Avondale was deliberately chosen for its accessibility to various amenities and transportation options, which is crucial for many residents who may not have their own vehicles. Connery highlighted that the neighborhood is not only walkable and wheelable but is also conveniently located near a bus stop and services like Workshops Empowerment Inc. and several childcare centers. The area is lively, with an array of dining options including popular spots like Saw’s Soul Kitchen, The Goose, Ampersandwich, Taco Morro Loco, Black Market Bar and Grill, Avondale Brewing Co., and more for residents to enjoy.
Additional nearby conveniences include a local gas station, grocery stores such as Red Bird Produce and Piggly Wiggly, ensuring that residents have everything they need within a short distance.
Addressing Housing Needs
The Kelsey Avondale aims to address a significant gap in inclusive housing for individuals with disabilities in Alabama. Connery pointed out that while there are supportive services available, the lack of appropriate housing options poses a challenge for many. Veronica McGee, a passionate advocate for the project, mentioned that 25% of the housing units in The Kelsey Avondale will be specifically set aside for people with disabilities, a first for the area.
McGee, who has been instrumental in organizing support for The Kelsey Avondale, shared her personal experience, noting her 25-year-old son Kyle’s need for more accessible housing options. She emphasized the importance of inclusive design that goes beyond the minimum standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to better suit the needs of individuals with significant disabilities.
Support from the Community
City leaders such as Darrell O’Quinn and Jonathan Moore have expressed their support for the project, alongside the Birmingham Department of Community Development, which will act as a concierge throughout the multi-step development process, as noted by Brittney Harris, a housing development manager for The Kelsey.
The cost of building The Kelsey Avondale is estimated to be between $25 million and $30 million. Funds will be gathered through philanthropic sources, low-income housing tax credits, and support from local, state, and federal entities.
As excitement builds for this much-needed addition to the community, Connery and others involved hope that The Kelsey Avondale will spark a broader movement towards inclusive housing not just in Birmingham, but across Alabama as a whole. With already a growing interest from individuals beyond the Birmingham metro area, this project stands out as a significant step forward in making sure that everyone can live with dignity and support in their own community.
