A joint venture has started construction on a $123 million overhaul of a 40-year-old, 406-unit affordable housing property in East Orange. The investment group, which includes Community Preservation Partners and L+M Development Partners, announced this week that they've purchased the Harman Towers complex on Walnut Street for $94 million and will invest mare than $29 million in improvements. They added that affordable housing mandates for the community were set to expire in 10 years but will now be extended for 30 years as part of the purchase agreement. The project is Community Preservation Partners’ first in New Jersey. "We’re proud to add another state to our growing Eastern portfolio and the Harman Towers project is a great way to make our New Jersey debuts said Seth Gellis, a vice president with the Irvine, California-based affordable housing developer. In keeping with our mission of enriching lives and strengthening neighborhoods, we're giving the Norman Towers a complete facelift in addition to new amenities and community activity areas to revitalize the quality of life for the senior residents. “Built it 1980, Harman Towers has not received any major renovations since the original construction, according to a news release. But the rehabilitation by CPP and L+M will bring much-needed upgrades to individual apartments such as energy-efficient appliances, new cabinets and countertops. CPP also plans enhancements to the common areas both inside and out, including an expansion of the community roam and the remodeling of additional spaces, a new computer room and fitness center, along with new landscaping, lighting, built-in grills and outdoor dining areas. Construction is expected to take about two years. "Much of our work in northern New Jersey is focused not just an revitalizing properties but also ensuring that those living in them can remain in their homes," said Jeffrey Moelis, L+M's managing director of preservation. be are proud to work with CPP as well as our government and financial partners, including the City of East Orange, the Hew Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, Freddie Mac, HUD, and Wells Fargo to deliver essential upgrades and preserve affordability for seniors at Norman Towers. “L+M, which is known locally for high-profile projects such as the restoration of Newark's Hahne & Co. building and the former Hew Jersey Bell tower, also has other preservation projects in its Hew Jersey portfolio. In 2019, the company closed on financing to preserve and modernize 268 units of Section 8 housing at Zion Towers in the South Ward, allowing far immediate repairs on the severely neglected building and guaranteeing affordability for the next 30 years. The company also recently finished work an more than $30 million of capital improvements at Georgia King Village, a Section 8 complex in the West Ward, including facade improvements, boiler plant replacement, extensive apartment renovations, enhanced security, the addition of a children's library, revamped open space and the installation of a free WiFi network for residents. In East Orange, the firm will bring that focus to one of the city's best-known and mast visible housing communities. "L+M Development Partners, CPP and Wells Fargo share a longstanding commitment to meet the urgent need for affordable housing in low-to-moderate income communities, said Alan Wiener, head of Wells Fargo Multifamily Capital. We are proud to be a part of the Norman Towers project, which will provide supportive housing for low-income seniors and will help to transform the communities of East Orange, New Jersey. “The project also drew praise from local officials. This significant investment by Community Preservation Partners and L+M Development Partners is a game changer for the revitalization of residential properties in the city" Mayor Ted Green said. This pandemic has reinforced the real value of living in a 'home' that nurtures the mental, physical and spiritual well-being of those who live in it. These planned renovations will set the standard for affordable and contemporary senior living in the City of East Orange.“Fifth Ward Council member Alicia Holman said she appreciated the new owners of Harman Towers listening to and incorporating resident feedback into the construction plans."I am very excited about this project.“ she said. ”Harman Towers was very well maintained under the former owners and I am in full support of this project not only for the residents who live there, but for the Norman Towers Complex remaining open and accessible as a venue for community-wide meetings."Council member Mustafa Brent added: Providing the highest quality of service and living conditions are cornerstones of any successful community, and East Orange is working to become a leader in this regard. “Meantime, CPP President Anand Kannan said the move into New Jersey represented an important step far the firm. "One of the best things about adding another state to our portfolio is the preservation that comes with it — not just of the buildings themselves, but the affordability as weII, Kannan said. This is a critical aspect of what we do — every new development is a chance to deepen and extend affordability, ensuring those in need can lead rich, fulfilling lives in the communities they've come to love.“
CPP, a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, in partnership with Housing New Mexico, Bernalillo County, Near North Valley Neighborhood Association, and the City of Albuquerque, has announced the acquisition and planned renovation of St. Anthony Plaza Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Albuquerque, N.M.. This is the 39th community in New Mexico for CPP.
St. Anthony Plaza Apartments is located at 1750 Indian School Road NW in the Near North Valley region of Albuquerque. Originally built in 1975 and designed to accomodate multigenerational living, the property is in need of substantial rehabilitations. St. Anthony Plaza offers 46 one-bedroom, 76 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom and 14 four-bedroom units across 11, two-story buildings. CPP’s total development investment is approximately $70M, which includes the purchase price of $27.16M and estimated renovation costs of approximately $122,000 per unit.
“Currently, over half of the renters in Albuquerque are cost burdened, meaning they are spending more than 30% of their income on housing,” said Belinda Lee, Vice President of Development at CPP. “The acquisition and redevelopment of St. Anthony Plaza will help preserve and improve much-needed affordable housing for the city, ensuring that low-income families have a safe, stable place to call home.”
St. Anthony Plaza is set to undergo a transformative renovation, bringing modern, energy-efficient upgrades that will enhance both sustainability and resident comfort. These improvements will include state-of-the-art Energy Star-rated appliances, new windows designed for efficiency, and LED lighting throughout the community. Water conservation will be a key focus, with low-flow and flush-rated plumbing fixtures and a full domestic water repipe. Residents will also benefit from a brand-new heating and cooling system, along with crucial electrical upgrades. Inside each unit, healthier living spaces will be created with low-VOC flooring, paint, and adhesives, as well as formaldehyde-free cabinets and countertops. In addition, accessibility improvements will ensure smooth, compliant pathways to residences, amenities, and parking, with enhanced common areas and restrooms designed to better serve all residents.
Beyond the interiors, the exterior of St. Anthony Plaza will receive a much-needed facelift, including stucco repairs, fresh paint, and new roofing to improve both aesthetics and durability. The community’s outdoor spaces will also see major enhancements, including resurfaced and restriped parking across 10 acres, improved drainage and erosion control, and ACM remediation. Safety and security remain a top priority, with plans for additional lighting, a new 6-foot perimeter fence, and controlled access to create a more secure and welcoming environment. These upgrades reflect a steadfast commitment to providing a modern, accessible, and vibrant community where residents can feel safe and comfortable.
“At CPP, we are dedicated to preserving and enhancing affordable housing communities that provide stability for families and individuals,” said Alexis Castillo, Assistant Development Manager at CPP. “The renovations at St. Anthony Plaza will not only improve the quality of life for residents through modern, energy-efficient upgrades but also ensure long-term affordability for generations to come. We are proud to partner with local organizations to bring these critical improvements to Albuquerque’s Near North Valley community.”
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by Spring 2026. The property’s affordability was set to expire in October 2025, but with CPP’s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. Additionally, the property will encumber a new Land Use Restrictive Agreement (LURA) to ensure affordability for 30 years. All units will be income restricted to family households at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include Bernalillo County, who will issue $33,500,000 in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue bonds. Ready Capital will provide the financing by purchasing bonds through a private placement. PNC will serve as the equity investor.
CPP, a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, has announced the acquisition and planned renovation of Ramona Park, an affordable housing complex in Baldwin Park, Calif. This is CPP’s fourth project in the Los Angeles area in the past year.
Ramona Park is located at 13870 Ramona Boulevard in Baldwin Park, approximately 15 miles east of Downtown Los Angeles. Designed with families in mind, the property is comprised of eight, two-story, garden-style buildings which house 49 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Community amenities include a community room, playground, and laundry room, as well as on-site management. CPP plans to invest $75,000 per unit in renovations.
"The renovations at Ramona Park reflect our ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing affordable housing in Metro Los Angeles, where the need has never been greater. With more than 500,000 low-income households in the region struggling to find affordable rental options, it is critical that we invest in maintaining and modernizing these communities,” said Belinda Lee, Vice President of Development at CPP. “This acquisition, preservation and rehabilitation of the property will not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also ensure long-term sustainability, accessibility, and security for families who call Ramona Park home."
Ramona Park is set to undergo significant renovations to address long-overdue maintenance needs. The improvements will include both interior and exterior upgrades, such as new windows, flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and lighting. Additionally, ADA-compliant units and pathways will be enhanced to meet local accessibility requirements. As part of the revitalization, new amenities will be introduced, including a picnic area, bike racks, a business center, social services, and surveillance cameras.
“Preserving and improving affordable housing is essential to supporting the well-being of our communities. The renovations at Ramona Park will provide residents with safer, more modern homes while also enhancing accessibility and adding valuable amenities,” said Philip Choi, Development Manager at CPP.
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site, instructor-led adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by the end of 2025. The property’s affordability was set to expire in October 2025, but with CPP’s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. All units will be income restricted to family households earning 30%, 40%, 50% and 60% percent of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), who issued and allocated 9% LIHTC. WNC & Associates serves as the equity partner. US Bank is providing construction financing and Capital One serves as the permanent lender, using a Freddie Mac product.
CPP (Community Preservation Partners), a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, in partnership with Bettencourt Properties and The Beneficial Housing Foundation, has announced the acquisition and planned renovation of Sundance Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Bakersfield, Calif. This is the first community in Bakersfield for CPP.
Sundance Apartments is located at 6000 White Lane in the Spice Tract neighborhood of Bakersfield. The convenient location allows residents easy access to multiple bus stops, as well as a nearby grocery store, shopping center and restaurants. Originally built in 1981, the property has not received any substantial rehabilitations. The property is comprised of 10, two-story buildings and an additional single-story building which contains the community room, laundry room, and leasing office. Designed to accommodate families, Sundance Apartments offers 40 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom units. CPP’s total development investment is approximately $32.5M, which includes the purchase price of $20M and estimated renovation costs of approximately $80,000 per unit.
“Bakersfield, like many cities in California, is experiencing an affordable housing crisis. In fact, studies indicate that nearly one-third of Bakersfield residents are spending more than 30% of their income on housing,” said Belinda Lee, Director of Development at CPP. “The preservation of Sundance Apartments’ 60 affordable units will play a part in helping to ensure that the Bakersfield affordable housing supply is maintained for years to come.”
Sundance Apartments will receive significant renovations aimed at improving the property’s energy efficiency and modernization. Specific improvements include the replacement of solar and electrical panels, HVAC units, water heaters and appliances. Additional interior upgrades include the modernization of bath and kitchen surrounds and fixtures, and replacement of unit flooring. Exterior improvements include roofing replacement, repairs to the property’s asphalt, pavement and paths of travel, as well as upgraded landscaping. CPP also plans to upgrade the property’s community room.
“By preserving 60 affordable units and investing in significant upgrades, we aim to ensure that these homes remain safe, energy-efficient, and sustainable for years to come. Our partnership with Bettencourt Properties and The Beneficial Housing Foundation underscores our shared commitment to providing quality, affordable housing to the communities that need it most,” said Alexis Castillo, Assistant Development Manager at CPP.
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by the end of 2025. The property’s affordability was set to expire in 2027, but with CPP’s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. Additionally, the property will encumber a new Land Use Restrictive Agreement (LURA) to ensure affordability for 55 years. All units will be income restricted to family households at 60% or below Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), who issued and allocated 9% LIHTC. WNC & Associates serves as the equity partner. Banner Bank is providing construction financing, while Key Bank serves as the permanent lender, using a Freddie Mac product.
CPP, a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, in partnership with Housing New Mexico, Bernalillo County, Near North Valley Neighborhood Association, and the City of Albuquerque, has announced the acquisition and planned renovation of St. Anthony Plaza Apartments, an affordable housing complex in Albuquerque, N.M.. This is the 39th community in New Mexico for CPP.
St. Anthony Plaza Apartments is located at 1750 Indian School Road NW in the Near North Valley region of Albuquerque. Originally built in 1975 and designed to accomodate multigenerational living, the property is in need of substantial rehabilitations. St. Anthony Plaza offers 46 one-bedroom, 76 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom and 14 four-bedroom units across 11, two-story buildings. CPP’s total development investment is approximately $70M, which includes the purchase price of $27.16M and estimated renovation costs of approximately $122,000 per unit.
“Currently, over half of the renters in Albuquerque are cost burdened, meaning they are spending more than 30% of their income on housing,” said Belinda Lee, Vice President of Development at CPP. “The acquisition and redevelopment of St. Anthony Plaza will help preserve and improve much-needed affordable housing for the city, ensuring that low-income families have a safe, stable place to call home.”
St. Anthony Plaza is set to undergo a transformative renovation, bringing modern, energy-efficient upgrades that will enhance both sustainability and resident comfort. These improvements will include state-of-the-art Energy Star-rated appliances, new windows designed for efficiency, and LED lighting throughout the community. Water conservation will be a key focus, with low-flow and flush-rated plumbing fixtures and a full domestic water repipe. Residents will also benefit from a brand-new heating and cooling system, along with crucial electrical upgrades. Inside each unit, healthier living spaces will be created with low-VOC flooring, paint, and adhesives, as well as formaldehyde-free cabinets and countertops. In addition, accessibility improvements will ensure smooth, compliant pathways to residences, amenities, and parking, with enhanced common areas and restrooms designed to better serve all residents.
Beyond the interiors, the exterior of St. Anthony Plaza will receive a much-needed facelift, including stucco repairs, fresh paint, and new roofing to improve both aesthetics and durability. The community’s outdoor spaces will also see major enhancements, including resurfaced and restriped parking across 10 acres, improved drainage and erosion control, and ACM remediation. Safety and security remain a top priority, with plans for additional lighting, a new 6-foot perimeter fence, and controlled access to create a more secure and welcoming environment. These upgrades reflect a steadfast commitment to providing a modern, accessible, and vibrant community where residents can feel safe and comfortable.
“At CPP, we are dedicated to preserving and enhancing affordable housing communities that provide stability for families and individuals,” said Alexis Castillo, Assistant Development Manager at CPP. “The renovations at St. Anthony Plaza will not only improve the quality of life for residents through modern, energy-efficient upgrades but also ensure long-term affordability for generations to come. We are proud to partner with local organizations to bring these critical improvements to Albuquerque’s Near North Valley community.”
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by Spring 2026. The property’s affordability was set to expire in October 2025, but with CPP’s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. Additionally, the property will encumber a new Land Use Restrictive Agreement (LURA) to ensure affordability for 30 years. All units will be income restricted to family households at or below 60% of Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include Bernalillo County, who will issue $33,500,000 in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue bonds. Ready Capital will provide the financing by purchasing bonds through a private placement. PNC will serve as the equity investor.
CPP, a mission-driven affordable housing preservation developer, has announced the acquisition and planned renovation of Ramona Park, an affordable housing complex in Baldwin Park, Calif. This is CPP’s fourth project in the Los Angeles area in the past year.
Ramona Park is located at 13870 Ramona Boulevard in Baldwin Park, approximately 15 miles east of Downtown Los Angeles. Designed with families in mind, the property is comprised of eight, two-story, garden-style buildings which house 49 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Community amenities include a community room, playground, and laundry room, as well as on-site management. CPP plans to invest $75,000 per unit in renovations.
"The renovations at Ramona Park reflect our ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing affordable housing in Metro Los Angeles, where the need has never been greater. With more than 500,000 low-income households in the region struggling to find affordable rental options, it is critical that we invest in maintaining and modernizing these communities,” said Belinda Lee, Vice President of Development at CPP. “This acquisition, preservation and rehabilitation of the property will not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also ensure long-term sustainability, accessibility, and security for families who call Ramona Park home."
Ramona Park is set to undergo significant renovations to address long-overdue maintenance needs. The improvements will include both interior and exterior upgrades, such as new windows, flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and lighting. Additionally, ADA-compliant units and pathways will be enhanced to meet local accessibility requirements. As part of the revitalization, new amenities will be introduced, including a picnic area, bike racks, a business center, social services, and surveillance cameras.
“Preserving and improving affordable housing is essential to supporting the well-being of our communities. The renovations at Ramona Park will provide residents with safer, more modern homes while also enhancing accessibility and adding valuable amenities,” said Philip Choi, Development Manager at CPP.
CPP is partnering with LifeSTEPS to provide on-site, instructor-led adult education, health and wellness, and skill-building classes and services to residents.
Renovations are expected to be complete by the end of 2025. The property’s affordability was set to expire in October 2025, but with CPP’s involvement, the Section-8 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract will be renewed for 20 years. All units will be income restricted to family households earning 30%, 40%, 50% and 60% percent of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Additional partners on the project include the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), who issued and allocated 9% LIHTC. WNC & Associates serves as the equity partner. US Bank is providing construction financing and Capital One serves as the permanent lender, using a Freddie Mac product.