FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ARHA PURCHASES THE ALATE SENIOR LIVING FACILITY FOR LADREY RESIDENTS

(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – August 7, 2025) – The Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) has acquired The Alate Old Town Senior Living Facility for $56.8 million as permanent relocation housing for 110 age-eligible residents of Ladrey Senior High-Rise, located at 300 Wythe Street.

“We are excited about this purchase,” said ARHA CEO Erik C. Johnson. “It will allow us to move our Ladrey residents out of a 1970s-era building into a brand-new building just seven blocks away, while keeping their rent costs the same. We thank city leaders for supporting its seniors with this approval.”

A unanimous Alexandria City Council vote in June approved the purchase of the Alate, located at 1122 North First Street. Closing took place yesterday, August 6, 2025. Bonds will be issued by the Virginia Resources Authority, and City Council has agreed to a Moral Obligation to facilitate the bond approval.

“This purchase allows ARHA to provide high quality, long-term affordable housing to some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Anitra Androh, Chair of the ARHA Board of Commissioners. “I commend the leadership of ARHA CEO Erik Johnson, Senior Director of Asset Management & Portfolio Operations Lester Simpson, and Director of Development Martin Lucero for spearheading this strategic acquisition.”

The original plan for Ladrey was to demolish the existing high-rise building and replace it with a larger L-shaped building. That plan was approved by City Council in January 2024. Johnson joined ARHA as its new CEO in September 2024. After strategizing with ARHA’s board, Johnson determined the Ladrey project was not possible due to a funding gap.

“When the project was conceived, the world was different,” Johnson said. “Credit pricing, construction pricing and interest rates all were lower. Unfortunately, the concept that worked five years ago doesn’t work in 2025. The purchase of this property is a bold pivot that addresses the needs of Ladrey residents. They deserve nothing less.”

The Alate will feature affordable senior housing for people ages 62 and older. It will be operated by a professional third-party property management company. ARHA plans to move Ladrey residents into the building soon and complete the move by the end of 2025.

The 133-unit property currently has 18 occupied units. ARHA will communicate directly with current residents as to their rights and options. Current occupants are allowed to move if they wish.

ARHA plans to begin renovations of the Ladrey property in the first quarter of 2027.

About ARHA

For over 80 years, the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority has provided affordable housing, economic opportunities, and a suitable living environment free from discrimination for the citizens of Alexandria. Our mission is to be an industry leader in the development and management of model mixed income communities that provide the opportunity for residents to achieve self-sufficiency and to participate in economic opportunities that are made possible through this model. To learn more, visit http://www.arha.us/.