Alexandria Proposes 91-Unit Affordable Housing Complex

The project aims to replace older units to provide new housing options for households earning up to 60% of the median income.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Apartments

Bold vector editorial illustration of a modern apartment complex, representing affordable housing development in an urban setting. — Community Lodgings has proposed a 91-unit affordable housing complex in Alexandria, aiming to modernize residential options in the Arlandria neighborhood. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should local governments provide tax breaks to private developers to increase affordable housing availability?

Community Lodgings has requested city approval for a new 91-unit affordable housing complex in Alexandria that would replace three 1940s-era apartment buildings. The project, which targets renters earning 30% to 60% of the area median income, is currently undergoing review by the Alexandria City Council.

Why it matters

This development represents a significant shift in local housing stock for lower-income households in the Arlandria area, aiming to replace 28 older units with a modernized complex. The proposal highlights how developers must navigate complex zoning and financing structures to bridge funding gaps for affordable housing construction.

The $58.8 million project replaces 28 existing units with 91 new affordable homes. The building will offer 182 bedrooms to households earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income.

The players

Community Lodgings

A developer seeking city approval for a $58.8 million affordable housing project.

Alexandria City Council

The local governing body responsible for reviewing zoning changes and housing permits.

Wesley Housing

The development partner working on the new 91-unit affordable housing complex.

ARHA

The agency issuing $16 million in tax-exempt bonds for the development financing.

The details

The project intends to replace three apartment buildings located at 3908, 3912, and 3916 Elbert Avenue with a larger, modern facility. To facilitate the financing, the development requires both a zoning text amendment and a tax abatement from the city. Community Lodgings plans to secure $16 million in ARHA-issued tax-exempt bonds before the end of the year to support the construction budget.

The Alexandria City Council reviewed the project plans on October 27, 2026.
A Planning Commission public hearing regarding the zoning amendment is set for November 5, 2026.
Construction is expected to break ground in April 2027.

Money Landscape

The proposal reflects a growing local trend of replacing mid-century rental stock with higher-density affordable housing. This project must navigate the city's specific zoning amendment requirements to bridge a funding gap and finalize its capital stack.

Low-to-moderate-income households in the area should monitor the upcoming public hearing on November 5 for potential impacts on future housing availability. While the project aims to increase the number of affordable units, prospective tenants should consult with local housing authorities regarding eligibility and waitlist projections.

The takeaway

The project signals a significant increase in affordable units for the Arlandria neighborhood once construction finishes. Interested parties should follow the November 5 Planning Commission meeting to track the approval status and expected project timeline.