New affordable housing development offers 14 apartments designed for residents with disabilities

• Xavier Square project in Riverbend Neighborhood built by Black-owned firm Nova Development Group
• No resident will pay more than 30% of their income each month thanks to project-based vouchers through the Detroit Housing Commission.

Mayor Mike Duggan, alongside City officials and the Nova Development Group of Detroit, celebrated the completion of 14 new deeply affordable housing units with a ribbon-cutting ceremony today. Xavier Square, located at 3141 Alter in Detroit’s Riverbend neighborhood, are designed specifically for low-income Detroiters, living with disabilities.

These new apartments will offer affordable housing options, with residents paying no more than 30% of their income for rent and utilities, thanks to project-based vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission (DHC).

The project is part of the $1 Billion in affordable housing the city and its partners have built or preserved over the past five years.  The mayor said Xavier Square is special because it offers affordable housing built specifically for residents with disabilities.

"This is the city we are building, where every Detroiter, regardless of their income or physical abilities can live in quality housing that supports their needs at a rent they can afford,” said Mayor Duggan. “I am so appreciative of Nova Development, our Department of Housing & Revitalization and the Detroit Housing Commission for making this important project a reality.”

The development in the Riverbend neighborhood has 12 two-bedroom apartments and two one-bedroom apartments. 13 of those units will have outdoor access. Central City Health will facilitate a supportive services program that will provide life skills case management for qualified residents. There is a shopping plaza next door and numerous local restaurants nearby.

“Affordable housing is important for all Detroiters, but for those who are among the most vulnerable of us--people who live with disabilities--it is essential,” said Councilmember Latisha Johnson. “This new development, along with its signature wraparound services, will directly improve the lives of these residents and their families allowing them to add to our community's rich tapestry. I applaud the Nova Development Group for their vision and the Housing and Revitalization Department (HRD) and other city partners--including the Detroit Housing Commission for continuing its commitment to ensuring that every Detroiter has access to safe, quality, and affordable housing.”

“Affordable housing designed with accessibility in mind is essential to growing a city that serves all its residents,” said Councilmember Fred Durhal. “Xavier Square represents the kind of progress we need—housing that empowers people living with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives while remaining connected to the fabric of our community. I'm proud to see our community grow stronger through partnerships that prioritize inclusivity and well-being.”

A personal passion

Xavier Square is the vision of Nova Development Group LLC, a minority-owned company led by Doug Dillard and Andrew Creamer. Creamer, a former DHC employee, and Dillard have spent decades developing affordable housing and improving the quality and efficiency of lower-income housing across the state, particularly on the east side of Detroit. 

"We are deeply committed to empowering individuals and fostering opportunities for every Detroiter," Creamer stated. "The City has been a steadfast partner in this endeavor, and we are truly grateful for its significant investment and unwavering support throughout this project. Nova is privileged to be part of Detroit's growth and is proud to contribute to the community by providing quality, affordable housing for its residents."

Xavier Square is particularly special for Dillard. His oldest grandson Manny has down syndrome.  

The homes were designed by Hamtramck-based Steven C. Flum Architects. Flum battled a disease early in his life that attacked his central nervous system, nearly shutting down all his vital functions. He spent more than two months in the hospital, and at one point could only communicate through blinking.

According to the City of Detroit’s Civil Rights, Inclusion and Opportunity Department, there are an estimated 123,000 residents living with disabilities in the city. That accounts for 19.6% of the population or approximately 1 out of 5 residents.

“Xavier Square is a testament to our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility,” said Julie Schneider, Director of the city’s Housing & Revitalization Department. “This project embodies our dedication to ensuring that all Detroiters, regardless of their physical abilities, have access to safe, affordable, and quality housing.”

Purposeful partnerships

Funding for the $5.4 million ground-up project includes $1.8 million in federal HOME funds and $179,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding through the city’s Housing & Revitalization Department. The City also is providing a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) program, which allows the developer to pay a 10% fee on the total rents they collect each year, rather than the regular property tax rate. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority provided additional funding, with Cinnaire as the tax credit syndicator. Land for the project was purchased from the Detroit Land Bank Authority.

“Everyone deserves a quality, affordable place to call home in a community of their choice,” said Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and Executive Director. “MSHDA is proud to be a part of this innovative and inclusive development that will ensure those with disabilities have access to attainable housing in the City of Detroit.”