Financed with low-income tax credits from the state of Texas, The Millennium features a range of one-, two-, and three-bedrooms divided among a four-story complex sheathed in masonry, stucco, brick, and fiber-cement siding. The project stands out for offering mixed-income units in an area where there’s great demand, since McKinney is considered one of the best places in the country to live, despite the prevalence of high-end, pricey apartments.
A year ago, a disparate ruling by the Supreme Court made The Millennium possible, stating that a lack of support for affordable housing is the equivalent of de facto segregation. Many area residents were unhappy about the decision, but the McKinney Housing Authority partnered with GroundFloor Development to make the project a reality.
The array of affordable options include 13 units for those who make 30% of the area median income (AMI); 52 for those who make 50% of the AMI; and 65 for those who make 60% of the AMI. There are also 37 market-rate units, priced from $900 to $1,125 a month. Very significant is that there are no differences in appearance between the two categories, says Brian Webster, vice president and general contractor at KWA Construction. Amenities and systems reflect those typical of market-rate buildings, such as a large outdoor pool, an enclosed sun porch, barbecue grills, fitness and business centers, a lounge with fireplace, and a centralized boiler for hot-water distribution.
Going affordable didn’t short-change a critical concern today—investing in sustainability. Here, choices feature regionally sourced lumber, brick, stucco, and roofing; low-flow plumbing fixtures; low-E windows; energy-efficient lights and appliances; and native plants.
