Newark, NJ – March 4, 2024 — Mayor Ras J. Baraka joined Newark Housing Authority Executive Director Leonard Spicer and The Alpert Group to break ground today for the first phase of the Millard E. Terrell Homes Redevelopment Project, at 97 Chapel Street in the city’s East Ward. The phase under construction will create 69 state-of-the art affordable housing units, specifically designed for seniors aged 55 and above.

When completed, the project will provide safe, secure, and modern affordable housing for city residents, with retail and community spaces, as well as on-site parking. The development is Energy Star certified, an Enterprise Green community, and will promote healthy living with energy-saving measures that will also minimize operating costs.

“The first phase of the Terrell Homes project represents our determination to provide comfort and security to the elders of our community,” Mayor Baraka said. “This five-story building will provide 69 affordable, age-restricted apartments specially designed for seniors to age-in-place. It is steeped in the respect and compassion we have for our parents and grandparents who have raised up all of Newark through their perseverance, sacrifice, energy, and faith. It incorporates the anticipated health, social, and transportation needs of our seniors. This initiative is not just comprehensive and forward-thinking, it is attentive and compassionate. Our city extends its heartfelt gratitude to New Jersey Economic Development Authority for this wonderful opportunity for our seniors.”

The first floor of the building will have an entrance lobby, a management office, a supportive services office, a generator, compactor, and a utility room. The second floor will include 15-one-bedroom apartments and one two-bedroom apartment. The third floor will include 17 one-bedroom apartments, one two-bedroom apartment, common laundry, and trash rooms. The fourth floor will include 17 one-bedroom apartments, one two-bedroom apartment, and common laundry and trash rooms. The fifth floor will include 17 one-bedroom apartments, common laundry and trash rooms and a small outdoor balcony in the southeast corner of the building.

The first phase of the project benefits from a crucial $8.9 million award through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) Aspire program. This grant program plays a vital role in supporting the development of mixed-use, transit-oriented projects, including affordable housing initiatives.

Phase II will be a family housing development. Details regarding unit configuration are still being negotiated. A project concept, with proposed benchmarks and financial pro forma, will be drafted in the Summer of 2024.

“The groundbreaking of the Terrell Homes redevelopment project marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing Newark residents with safe, secure, and modern affordable housing,” Mr. Spicer said. “We are grateful for the support of the NJEDA and Aspire program, and we look forward to collaborating with our residents and community partners to bring this transformative vision to life.”

An Alabama native and decorated World War II veteran, Mr. Terrell was the first Newark Housing Authority tenant to become one of the authority’s commissioners, holding that post for 13 years until his death in 1986. Fellow tenants held Mr. Terrell in high regard for his hard work and commitment to improving the facilities.

The senior housing component is designed with the future in mind. Built above flood elevation levels and incorporating numerous resiliency features, the building safeguards residents against potential weather-related events.

About The Alpert Group:

The Alpert Group is a fourth-generation, family-owned, and operated full-service real estate management and development company. Since its founding more than 40 years ago, the company has developed more than 3,500 units of housing and currently owns and manages a portfolio of over 2,500 units in New Jersey. The Alpert Group is a recognized leader in the development of affordable housing using Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and has extensive experience partnering with municipalities, housing authorities, and local non-profits to develop quality affordable housing.

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-NEWARK-

For more information on the City of Newark, please visit our website at

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