Perkins Somerset Oldtown: Property Development in Baltimore

Last Updated on: 28th February 2025, 08:44 am

The Perkins Somerset Oldtown (PSO) project stands as a beacon of transformation in Baltimore, aiming to revitalize a historic neighborhood into a vibrant community. This initiative, backed by a $30 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Initiative grant, is set to breathe new life into the area, creating a mixed-income housing community that fosters pride and integration¹.

At the heart of this transformation is the redevelopment of Perkins Homes, which will be replaced by modern, mixed-income housing. The project also includes the construction of 2,172 new homes, with 60% designated for affordable housing, impacting nearly 6,000 residents².

Leading this effort are the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) and key figures like President Janet Abrahams, ensuring a community-focused approach. The vision is to create a neighborhood that seamlessly integrates urban vibrancy with essential community assets, enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Key Takeaways

The PSO project is revitalizing a historic Baltimore neighborhood with a $30 million HUD grant.
Perkins Homes is being redeveloped into a modern, mixed-income community.
The project includes 2,172 new homes, 60% of which are affordable housing.
Nearly 6,000 residents will benefit from this transformation.
HABC and leaders like Janet Abrahams are driving this community-focused initiative.

For more details on the PSO Transformation Plan, visit the HABC website.

Community Transformation and PSO Vision

The Perkins Somerset Oldtown (PSO) area is a historic neighborhood in Baltimore City, home to over 5,939 residents across 2,122 households³. This community, while rich in history, has faced significant challenges, including concentrated poverty and underinvestment in its housing stock.

Background and Community Profile

At the heart of this community is Perkins Homes, a 629-unit public housing development that has long struggled with outdated infrastructure and lack of investment³. Residents here have endured decades of neglect, making the need for transformation urgent. The PSO area also includes Somerset and Oldtown, neighborhoods that, despite their challenges, boast a strong sense of community and resilience.

Transformation Goals and Objectives

The PSO Transformation Plan aims to replace distressed housing with mixed-income units, creating a more vibrant and inclusive neighborhood³. A key feature of this plan is the construction of a new state-of-the-art school, designed to provide local children with access to quality education and resources⁴. Additionally, the plan includes enhanced community amenities, such as improved parks, retail spaces, and supportive services, all of which are essential for fostering economic self-sufficiency and breaking the cycle of poverty.

Community Transformation Vision

The initiative also focuses on attracting both public and private investments to revitalize the area. By anchoring these investments, the PSO Transformation Plan seeks to create opportunities for residents, ensuring that the community-led change is both sustainable and equitable³. This approach not only addresses the physical needs of the neighborhood but also empowers its residents, helping them to thrive in a rapidly changing city.

For more details on the PSO Transformation Plan, you can download the comprehensive plan here.

Perkins Somerset Oldtown Property Development Baltimore

The Perkins Somerset Oldtown (PSO) area is undergoing a remarkable transformation, blending innovative housing solutions with community-focused amenities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a thriving, inclusive neighborhood that benefits all residents.

Innovative Mixed-Income Housing Projects

The redevelopment of Perkins Homes is a cornerstone of this transformation. The project replaces outdated public housing with modern, mixed-income units. In Phase One, 103 mixed-income housing units were completed, with 48 units reserved for former residents of Perkins public housing⁵. This approach ensures a balanced community, offering both affordable and market-rate options.

Supportive Community Services and Amenities

Beyond housing, the PSO Transformation Plan includes essential community services. A new state-of-the-art school is being built to provide local children with quality education³. Additionally, improved parks, retail spaces, and supportive services are being developed to foster economic self-sufficiency and break the cycle of poverty.

Key Partnerships and Funding Initiatives

The success of this project is driven by strategic partnerships and significant funding. The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) and the City of Baltimore secured a $30 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Initiative grant³. This funding, combined with over $1 billion in investments, is revitalizing the area and creating opportunities for residents⁵.

Innovative Housing and Community Services

These efforts aim to create a 21st-century urban neighborhood, addressing both physical and social infrastructure needs. The collaboration between HABC and other stakeholders ensures that the redevelopment is sustainable and equitable, benefiting current and future residents alike.

Strategic Initiatives and Community Investments

Strategic collaborations and significant investments are driving the Perkins Somerset Oldtown transformation. This initiative has attracted over $540 million in additional investments, leveraging the initial $30 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Initiative grant⁶. These funds are instrumental in revitalizing the neighborhood and creating opportunities for residents.

Strategic Initiatives and Community Investments

The project’s success is driven by public-private partnerships. The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) and the City of Baltimore have secured substantial funding, including $102 million through tax-increment financing⁷. These investments are transforming public spaces like City Springs Park and Chick Webb Recreation Center, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

According to the BNIA Progress Dashboard, the initiative has made notable progress. The replacement of 629 aging housing units and the addition of 716 new units are key milestones⁶. This mixed-income community now includes 1,345 units, with 928 designated as affordable housing⁷.

For more details on the funding and progress of the PSO Transformation Plan, visit the HUD website.

Conclusion

The Perkins Somerset Oldtown transformation represents a significant step forward for Baltimore City, blending innovative housing solutions with community-focused amenities to create a thriving neighborhood. This initiative, supported by a $30 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Initiative grant⁸, has already shown measurable progress, with over $540 million in additional investments leveraged⁸.

The project has replaced aging public housing units with modern, mixed-income units, ensuring a balanced community. Key milestones include the replacement of 629 original units and the addition of 716 new units, resulting in a total of 1,345 units, with 928 designated as affordable housing⁸⁹. These efforts have been complemented by enhanced community amenities, such as improved parks and supportive services, fostering economic self-sufficiency and breaking the cycle of poverty.

The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) and its partners have played a crucial role in driving this project forward. Their collaborative efforts have ensured sustainable and equitable redevelopment, benefiting both current and future residents. For more details on the progress and milestones of the PSO Transformation Plan, visit the HABC website.

Looking ahead, the continued commitment from all stakeholders will ensure lasting positive change for the neighborhood. The transformation of Perkins Somerset Oldtown into a vibrant, inclusive community is not just a vision but a reality taking shape, promising a brighter future for all residents.

FAQ

What is the PSO Transformation Plan?

The PSO Transformation Plan is a comprehensive initiative aimed at revitalizing public housing communities in Baltimore. It focuses on creating mixed-income neighborhoods, improving housing quality, and providing essential community services to residents.

How will the transformation affect current residents?

The plan prioritizes resident relocation and support. Current residents will have access to relocation assistance, ensuring they can return to the redeveloped community. The goal is to minimize disruption while improving their living conditions.

What types of housing will be available?

The project includes a mix of affordable and market-rate housing to create diverse, inclusive communities. This approach aims to reduce poverty and promote long-term stability for residents.

What community services will be provided?

Residents will benefit from supportive services, including education, healthcare, and job training. These amenities are designed to empower individuals and strengthen the community.

How is the project funded?

Funding comes from a combination of federal grants, private investments, and partnerships with local organizations. This collaborative effort ensures the project’s success and sustainability.

What is the timeline for the transformation?

The transformation is phased, with the first phase focusing on infrastructure and housing. Subsequent phases will expand services and amenities, ensuring a gradual and sustainable approach to community development.

How can the community get involved?

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in community meetings and planning sessions. Feedback is crucial in shaping the project to meet local needs and priorities.