Photos: Alina Simone

Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation

Affordable homes designed for Fifth Ward CRC by Architect Robert Venturi.

Laying the foundations for change

In the fifties the Fifth Ward was nicknamed “The Nickel,” a reflection of its important position as one of Houston’s economic hubs. That image of prosperity grew tarnished in the sixties and seventies when the neighborhood suffered from disinvestment and a decline in population. In 1989 a diverse group of concerned citizens formed the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation. More than just a housing provider, Fifth Ward CRC has linked low-income residents with social services as well as economic and educational opportunities. Fifth Ward CRC‘s comprehensive approach to neighborhood revitalization has proven highly successful.

Fostering economic revitalization The creation of Fifth Ward Financial Services Center has produced 128 new jobs and expanded neighborhood services to include a State Farm and Texas Commerce Branch Bank. Programs like Fifth Ward Community Builders provide training in construction trades for youth and business opportunities for minority subcontractors.

Preserving neighborhood heritage New twists on old architectural forms such as this ‘nouveau’ shotgun house (right) reflect Fifth Ward's historic character with an eye to the future. Fifth Ward CRC is currently spearheading the restoration of the historic Deluxe Theatre. The theatre is being converted into a community arts center.

(left) This one-story 'nouveau shotgun' house sold for less than $38,000

Building and developing affordable housing

Lyons Village combines affordable housing with innovative social services like Success by Six, and a Retail Incubator for teenage entrepreneurs.

Major housing initiatives include the construction of 92 single family homes and the development of Heritage Mutual Housing, a 318 unit low-income rental complex with on-site daycare and a youth learning and recreation center. Fifth Ward CRC’s latest project is Lyons Village (above). This multi-use, affordable housing complex includes a storefront which offers retail and social services to both residents and the community at large.

“This house cost about $80,000 but the government gave us a $15,000 grant. Can you imagine where you can get a house like this for $65,000? We’re just elated about it and really thankful to Fifth Ward CRC for giving us the opportunity to own a home. We’re in a place that we’ve been in all our lives, where everybody looks out for everybody - We’ve got easy access to the freeways, we’ve got downtown. I don’t know any other place where I’d rather be!”