The 1309 Madison and 415 Adams project is a new construction, multi-family affordable
housing development designed to expand the supply of high-quality rental housing while
addressing complex site and regulatory challenges. The project was developed under
the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) 4% Low-Income Housing
Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and required full compliance with MSHDA Design
Standards, including multiple formal design reviews throughout the entitlement and
construction documentation phases.

The development consists of a total of 45 apartment units distributed between two
buildings, offering a balanced mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments to
accommodate a range of household sizes. The Madison building serves as the primary
community anchor for the development and includes a resident community room,
property management offices, a fitness room, and a shared lounge area. These spaces
were intentionally designed to support resident engagement, on-site services, and long-
term property operations consistent with MSHDA expectations for amenity-rich
affordable housing.

Comprehensive site improvements were integral to the project scope. New parking lots
were constructed at both the Madison and Adams sites, each incorporating electric
vehicle charging stations to support sustainable transportation options. The Adams site
includes a dedicated children’s playground designed to provide safe, accessible outdoor
recreation for resident families. Site circulation, lighting, and landscaping were
coordinated to enhance safety, usability, and long-term durability.

The project was designed to achieve LEED Silver certification at a minimum upon
completion, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and healthy
living environments. Design strategies addressed building envelope performance,
energy-efficient mechanical systems, water conservation, material selection, and indoor
environmental quality, while remaining aligned with MSHDA design and cost
containment requirements.

The Madison site presented several significant technical and regulatory challenges. The
project included demolition of a former grocery store, during which contaminated soils
were identified and required coordination with environmental consultants and regulatory
agencies to develop and implement an approved remediation strategy. Additionally,
archeologically significant items were discovered on the Madison site, necessitating
careful documentation, coordination with qualified archeological professionals, and
compliance with applicable preservation protocols. These conditions required
adjustments to construction sequencing and close collaboration among the design
team, contractor, and reviewing authorities to maintain project schedules and funding
compliance.

Despite these complexities, the 1309 Madison and 415 Adams project successfully
integrated affordable housing objectives, sustainability goals, and community-focused
amenities within a constrained regulatory and environmental context. The completed
development provides durable, energy-efficient housing that supports residents’ quality
of life while meeting the stringent requirements of the MSHDA 4% LIHTC program.