Following the hurricane season in 2017, the Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion sustained severe internal and external damage, leaving the development in need of critical repairs, which it is now set to receive through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program.
The $112.8 million rehabilitation project will help preserve 248-units of affordable housing in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Thanks to $24.4 million through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, upgrades will also include the installation of a wind retrofit system to include new hurricane-wind resistant windows and entry doors.
The Hodge Pavilion will receive critical investments to enhance operational efficiency and improve resident quality of life while retaining affordability. Project upgrades will include new kitchen and bath fixtures and cabinets, new plumbing systems, and updated electrical wiring. Additionally, the site will receive a new senior center and recreational spaces to support residents. Additional programming will connect residents to jobs and job training.
Located at 1 Centerline Road in Frederiksted, St. Croix, the rehabilitation of the Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion will include 250-units, with two of the existing units being converted to accommodate the new senior center.
The project will also redesign the physical landscape of the Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion through site beautification measures, creating recreational spaces for residents, re-designed pedestrian walkways, parking spaces, and seating areas that will improve the livability of the development. Areas for gardening and passive recreation will also help support healthy lifestyles.