WELCOME TO THE THIRD WARD-CUNEY HOMES CHOICE NEIGHBORHOOD!
The City of Houston and the Houston Housing Authority secured a $50 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This transformative grant will be leveraged to fund a $610.7 million comprehensive redevelopment of the historic Cuney Homes and the expansion of affordable housing in the
Third Ward.
From 2020 to 2023, the Third Ward-Cuney Homes Transformation team conducted an inclusive planning process, engaging over 30 partners and community members to develop strategies that address local challenges and leverage neighborhood opportunities. This resident-driven plan focuses on expanding housing capacity, improving access to healthcare, enhancing educational opportunities, and fostering economic growth.
About the Third Ward
Located directly across from Texas Southern University (TSU), Cuney Homes was the first development completed by the Houston Housing Authority in 1938. The apartment complex was named for Norris Wright Cuney, an influential African American Leader in Texas during the late 1800s. Cuney Homes was also home to Houston star athlete, musical artist, and beloved friend George Floyd until 2014.
“By getting the Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant, we can start the process of putting our hopes and dreams for the future of Cuney Homes and Third Ward into action. Now we truly Rise For Our Future!!” -Delores Ford, Cuney Homes Resident Council President
The Choice Neighborhood plan focuses on three key areas:
- Housing – Enhance housing conditions by replacing underfunded and distressed public housing and HUD-assisted housing with revitalized mixed-income housing.
- People – Enrich the lives of residents in the targeted area by providing access to better employment and income opportunities, health services, and education.
- Neighborhoods – Promote neighborhood growth by making physical improvements, creating safe environments, providing access to high-quality schools and attracting positive investments from public and private sectors.
The grant period will run from 2024 to 2032, marking a decade-long commitment to revitalizing the neighborhood. The suite of support services included in this plan are designed to build a stronger, more inclusive neighborhood that honors its history while welcoming future growth and development. This initiative ensures that current residents can thrive and benefit from these improvements, preserving the unique character and affordability of the Third Ward.
Part of the project plan includes doubling the number of households at Cuney Homes from 553 units to 1,115 units, transforming it into a mixed-income community. The expansion will foster a diverse and inclusive community that promotes community growth and reinvestment.
About the Third Ward
The Third Ward evolved from the original six wards in Houston and is located immediately Southeast of Downtown Houston. The Third Ward or “The Tre” is the center of Houston’s African-American community. In 1872, some influential African-Americans raised $800 to purchase four acres of land. This land later became known as Emancipation Park, where annual Juneteenth celebrations are now held to commemorate the liberation from slavery. Other historic institutions include the Yates High School, Riverside General Hospital, and the Eldorado Ballroom, where musical greats like Ray Charles, Etta James, Jimmy Reed, and T-Bone Walker played.
