Newly Renovated Affordable Homes Open in Southwest Baltimore

A New Beginning for Affordable Housing in Southwest Baltimore

Baltimore City and state leaders recently came together to celebrate the completion of renovations at The Residences at Irvington Woods, a newly redeveloped affordable housing complex located in Southwest Baltimore. This project marks a significant step forward in addressing the city's ongoing housing challenges and providing stable living conditions for vulnerable populations.

The apartment complex, situated at 4106 Potter Street, is owned and operated by Volunteers of America Chesapeake and Carolinas (VOACC). It offers 71 units designed for individuals who were previously homeless, low-income families, veterans, and those requiring mental health support. The $24.5 million renovation included a wide range of improvements, such as new wood flooring, countertops, cabinetry, safety upgrades, and a newly refurbished community room. Additionally, the units received updates to their plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems, ensuring a safer and more comfortable living environment.

Beyond physical improvements, the complex will also provide wraparound support services. These include individualized case management, career services, financial literacy programs, resource referrals, and technology classes. These services are essential in helping residents achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in expanding housing options across the city. “We have to continue to do things like this, working together to build out housing options citywide,” he said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “This is about lifting up those who are veterans, those who have suffered with mental and substance abuse issues, and giving them the long-term affordability and sustainability they need to succeed.”

Other speakers at the event included Candace Vanderwater, CEO and president of VOACC, Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen, Maryland State Senator Dalya Attar, and representatives from the project’s builders. Vanderwater highlighted the organization’s commitment to housing as a foundation for healthy communities. “Housing is connected to stable, safe, and affordable places to call home,” she said. “The Residences at Irvington Woods is the latest chapter of this commitment.”

Growing Demand for Affordable Housing

The need for affordable housing continues to grow in Baltimore and across Maryland. According to the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC), the agency provided housing vouchers to 19,395 households in 2024—a 12% increase over the past five years. In 2020, HABC served 872 new households with vouchers, compared to 1,546 in 2024. As the fifth-largest public housing organization in the nation, HABC serves more than 23,000 households.

In a statement to The Baltimore Sun, an HABC spokesperson noted that communities like Irvington Woods offer a foundation for opportunity, improved health outcomes, economic mobility, and educational success. The agency will work with VOACC to provide rental assistance for the units, including vetting and placing applicants in the complex.

Janet Abrahams, president and CEO of HABC, emphasized the role of such developments in building stronger communities. “By providing stable homes to vulnerable populations, we empower individuals and families to thrive and contribute to Baltimore’s future,” she said.

A Wider Crisis

This issue extends beyond Baltimore. According to a July housing report from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, there is a shortage of 275,000 rental units that are affordable for people earning 80% or less of an area’s median income. Across the United States, there is a shortage of 4 to 7 million homes, according to new data from the Pew Research Center. Additionally, rents have increased by 49% in cities from October 2017 to October 2024.

Maryland State Senator Dalya Attar stressed the urgency of addressing the affordable housing crisis. “Housing is not a luxury, it is a necessity,” she said. “When we see organizations like Volunteers of America and others coming together to make places like this happen, it is truly an amazing moment.”

Resident Perspectives

Residents of The Residences at Irvington Woods have expressed appreciation for the recent renovations. Lakesha Caldwell, a 52-year-old resident who has lived in the complex for three years, noted that the new wood floors made a noticeable difference. Mary Johnson, who has lived there for 20 years, praised the upgrades to the kitchen and bathroom.

During the renovation, residents were temporarily relocated to empty units, as the complex was not at full capacity. So far, 46 of the 71 units have been filled. For many, the changes have made a meaningful impact on their daily lives.

Omar Black, COO of Harkins Builders, the general contractor for the project, thanked residents for allowing the team into their homes. “This wasn’t just a construction project,” he said. “It was a coordinated effort to revitalize and uplift while maintaining the comfort and dignity of residents throughout the entire 14-month construction period.”