A major affordable housing redevelopment has reached a critical milestone in Southeast Washington, D.C. The Upland, a new 169-unit affordable housing complex, officially opened this week, offering displaced residents the first opportunity to return. The project is part of the broader Barnaby & 7th redevelopment effort in the Washington Heights neighborhood. With construction now moving into its next phase, the initiative is reshaping access to affordable housing for low-income families in the area.

First 169 Units Now Available

The newly completed building, known as The Upland, offers 169 apartments designated as affordable and supportive housing. These units are available to households earning between 30 and 50 percent of the area median income (AMI), ensuring accessibility for D.C. residents facing high housing costs.

Priority for Former Residents

One of the key features of this development is its commitment to prioritizing displaced residents. The Upland is located on the site of the former Belmont Crossing Apartments, a 1950s-era building that was demolished in 2023 to make way for the redevelopment. Residents of Belmont Crossing were given the first opportunity to lease the new apartments, ensuring they are not left behind in the city’s rapid housing changes.

Move-In Date Set for June 16

While leases have yet to be signed, the first wave of residents is expected to move in starting June 16. Leasing will open to the general public later in the month, after the initial priority period for former Belmont Crossing tenants concludes.

Project Backed by Public Funding

The Barnaby & 7th redevelopment is supported by both the D.C. Housing Finance Agency and the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development. These agencies provided financial resources to make the project possible while keeping rents affordable for low-income families. The site itself was purchased by residents under the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA), which allowed tenants to retain a voice in future development.

Modern Amenities for Residents

The Upland includes a wide range of community-focused amenities. These include a community garden and amphitheater, a playground, dog parks, a gym, a yoga studio, a computer lab, and a library. Underground parking is also available. The development aims to provide more than just housing by fostering a sense of stability and community among residents.

Second Phase Under Construction

The project’s next phase is already underway. It will add 229 additional affordable units for households earning between 30 and 80 percent of AMI. This phase will also introduce a pedestrian-friendly walkway along Barnaby Street. Completion is expected by fall 2026, with more units coming online to meet increasing demand for affordable housing in the area.

Final Phase Coming by 2027

A third and final phase will add another 120 units and is scheduled for completion in 2027. Once all phases are complete, the Barnaby & 7th redevelopment will offer over 500 affordable housing units in total, making it one of the largest such efforts in the area. The redevelopment is led by Gilbane Development, in partnership with MED Developers and EquityPlus Manager LLC. These organizations have combined public investment with private sector development expertise to execute a long-term affordable housing strategy for Southeast D.C.