Welcome to the Third Ward-Cuney Homes Choice Neighborhood!
The Houston Housing Authority (HHA) and the City have been awarded a prestigious two-year Choice Neighborhoods Initiative Planning Grant Program (CNI) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This grant, in the amount of $450,000, will be used to develop a resident and community-driven plan for meaningful neighborhood transformation, centered around the redevelopment of Cuney Homes, Houston’s longest-standing public housing community, located in Historic Third Ward. Together, we will work with local organizations, businesses, service providers, educational and religious institutions through this initiative.
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.
Third Ward-Cuney Homes Transformation Plan
The Third Ward-Cuney Homes Transformation Plan represents a significant milestone in the nearly 3-year Choice Neighborhoods planning process. This comprehensive document encapsulates the collective community aspirations and vision for Cuney Homes and the Third Ward, thoughtfully crafted by the residents themselves.
Building upon this strong foundation, our dedicated team has successfully refined the plan and recently submitted it to HUD. The plan reflects not only the dreams and desires of the community but also serves as a blueprint for a vibrant and inclusive future for Cuney Homes and the Third Ward. Together, we are forging a path toward a thriving, equitable, and sustainable community that honors the voices and values of all our residents.
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 32-acre site comprises 553 units that are home to over 1100 residents. 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.
“Cuney residents are close-knit; there’s a strong bond through generations of neighbors. We have become a family and together we are vested in our community. It is wonderful that we now have an opportunity to be a part of the changes that so many of us are looking forward to.” -Veronica DeBoest, Cuney Homes Resident Council President
