DHA Downtown & Neighborhood Plan

Lord Aeck Sargent collaborated with the Durham Housing Authority (DHA), the City of Durham, and Durham County to develop a comprehensive urban design and planning framework for the redevelopment of publicly owned land in downtown Durham. This initiative responds to Durham's rapid population growth and the critical shortage of affordable housing, particularly for those earning less than 50% of the area's median income. The 10-year plan focuses on seven key sites, proposing mixed-use developments that integrate affordable housing with market-rate units to foster a more inclusive downtown community. Through a process that included extensive stakeholder engagement, Lord Aeck Sargent explored various architectural and site design concepts, ensuring that the development aligns with both the city's growth trajectory and the community's needs. The plan also emphasizes sustainability and financial viability, supported by the establishment of a new Affordable Housing Trust Fund, reflecting a strategic approach to urban regeneration and public housing preservation.