The Mary Shepard Place housing community in Hartford’s North End had become outdated, with its 80-year-old brick buildings no longer meeting the needs of modern multi-generational living. The aging infrastructure and non-descript design failed to capitalize on the site’s strategic location within the Clay Arsenal Neighborhood, where residents have access to schools, religious institutions, businesses, retail stores, and transit systems.

The Housing Authority of the City of Hartford partnered with Amenta Emma to transform the site into a vibrant, sustainable neighborhood featuring 167 dwelling units across 30 three-story townhouse-style buildings and a dedicated Community Center. The innovative design prioritizes safety and community connection through a central town green and walkable streetscape. Universal Design principles ensure accessibility for all residents, with ground-floor flats featuring private, accessible front porches for seniors and those with mobility restrictions, while upper-level townhouses maintain street presence through individual front porch entrances.

This thoughtfully designed development demonstrates environmental leadership through its LEED Silver Equivalent certification and Passive House standards, significantly reducing energy consumption and operating costs while providing superior comfort for residents. The community-focused layout, with its emphasis on “eyes on the street” and shared green spaces, fosters social interaction and security. By providing housing options that accommodate various ages and abilities, the development strengthens the neighborhood’s inclusive character while maintaining strong connections to surrounding community assets.