NHP Foundation Launches Affordable Housing Project in Columbia Heights

NHP Foundation Launches Harvard Court Project

The NHP Foundation (NHPF), in collaboration with CHV ownership entities, has officially broken ground on the transformative Harvard Court project, located at 1425 Harvard Street NW in Columbia Heights. This initiative will address the pressing need for affordable housing in one of Washington, D.C.'s most economically challenged areas.

Project Overview

In July 2025, after securing construction financing, NHPF began work on this seven-story structure, which will feature a total of 108 affordable housing units. The design, handled by Shalom Baranes Associates, PC, aims to provide high-quality housing solutions tailored to the diverse needs of the community. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-2027, marking a significant addition to the region's housing stock.

Eric Price, President and CEO of NHPF, emphasized the importance of this development by stating, "This project highlights our strategy to maximize housing output by utilizing underused land within our existing portfolio. Such creative solutions are necessary in high-cost neighborhoods like Columbia Heights." This initiative not only increases housing availability but also supports the overall goal of maintaining community diversity in the face of rising living costs.

Partnership and Funding

The effort has benefitted from a robust public-private partnership. The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) played a critical role by issuing $48.26 million in tax-exempt bonds and underwriting over $41 million in federal and District Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity. Among the vital financing partners are Hudson Housing Capital, Bank of America, DCHFA, and the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development (DC DHCD), which also contributed $24.29 million from its Housing Production Trust Fund. This financial backing highlights the commitment to advancing affordable housing in Washington, D.C.

Community Impact

Harvard Court is designed to ensure that 100% of its apartments will be affordable, catering to a wide range of incomes. As rents continue to climb in Columbia Heights, this project aims to alleviate the economic pressures faced by local residents. By providing access to affordable housing, Harvard Court aligns with NHPF’s mission to create sustainable communities and improve the quality of life for residents.

This development complements the existing Columbia Heights Village community, which is keen on preserving local diversity while providing additional homes and amenities. The project underscores the ongoing need for affordable housing solutions in urban settings and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between public entities and the private sector.

About the NHP Foundation

Established in 1989, the NHP Foundation is a not-for-profit real estate corporation dedicated to improving access to affordable housing. With extensive experience encompassing acquisition, investment, development, and construction, NHPF has developed expertise in addressing community needs. The organization ultimately supports over 25,000 residents across 63 properties spread over 15 states and the District of Columbia. Through initiatives like Operation Pathways, NHPF offers tailored resident services aimed at empowering families facing hardships. For more information on NHPF and its affordable housing endeavors, visit www.nhpfoundation.org.