Puerta de Tierra was the first public housing project built in Puerto Rico. Constructed in the 1930s, it was meant to be an example of the best of modernized housing with 8 zig-zagged four-story buildings in a closed campus. Instead, it became an example of the detrimental effects of concentrated poverty. Located in the Old San Juan historic district, Puerta de Tierra became an obstacle to the stabilization and proposed redevelopment of the district and an obstacle to the success of its own families.
In 2014, the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH) began to search for a new model for providing housing for Puerto Rico neediest families. McCormack Baron Salazar joined the PRDOH to explore mixed-income, mixed-finance scenarios for the revitalization of Puerta de Tierra.
The new 9-acre community includes 174 new apartments in a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in a 4-story mixed use building, 3-story walk-ups, and 3-story townhouse buildings. The development also includes a management/leasing office of approximately 3,300 square feet, with management space, a community room (with a business center area), and a fitness room. There is also approximately 6,000 square feet of commercial space and a stand-alone maintenance building. Site amenities include landscaping, site lights, site utilities, controlled parking, walking trails, tot lots, and community gardens. The new development preserves and enhances affordable housing options in San Juan, and also connects the Puerta de Tierra community with the broader Bahía Urbana revitalization.
A public-private partnership between the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH), McCormack Baron Salazar, and private investors used public dollars to leverage private equity, resulting in a total investment of $41.3 million. Through this innovative partnership, a vacant affordable housing site has now been transformed into a new, vibrant community in which Puerto Ricans from all income levels can live together and thrive.
As a mixed-income community, monthly rental costs vary, and are based on income limits. Certain income and qualification restrictions may apply. Rental rates are subject to change and may differ from those currently listed on the website. Please visit our website or call us for additional information.
