WC Smith welcomed DC Attorney General Karl Racine, DC Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, DC Housing and Community Development Director Drew Hubbard, DC Housing Finance Agency Executive Director Christopher Donald, former residents and advocates for the Terrace Manor Raze Event on June 30.
The demolition signals the start of new chapter for the troubled property, which WC Smith acquired in 2017, in cooperation with the Terrace Manor Organized for Change Tenants Association. The company had been approached by DC Office of Attorney General, which had sued Sanford Capital, the previous Terrace Manor owner, due to deplorable living conditions.
Addressing the audience, Racine noted that the old property had more than 120 housing code violations, mold, rodent infestation and HVAC problems. He also commended the former residents, who were tenacious in their efforts to find new owners and rebuild.
Monica Jackson, a former resident and president of the Tenants Association, also gave remarks. Pointing to the demolition, she said “These torn down buildings aren’t an end – they’re a beginning. The new Terrace Manor will be OUR home. I cannot wait to move in!”
The new Terrace Manor will be a newly constructed, affordable multifamily property comprising 130 fully affordable units, with rents based on 30%, 50% and 60% AMI. The building will feature modern systems and amenity spaces, including a gym, business center, community room and a 24-hour front desk. Terrace Manor will have solar panels and designed to be LEED Gold.
