Austin investing in housing and shelter for abuse survivors; 60-unit complex breaks ground

The Lancaster includes a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units for low-income tenants who likely aren't able to cover full rental payments. The supportive housing program aims to assist residents with reaching housing stability; half of The Lancaster's units will have rent costs covered through local housing vouchers.

“This project shows great strides against homelessness are possible if local, state and philanthropic partners work together,” Capital A principal Conor Kenny said in a statement.

The Lancaster is expected to open in 2026.

In other news

Work on The Lancaster housing project is progressing as Austin also moves toward the opening of a new domestic violence shelter.

The space, a former Super 8 hotel at East 51st Street and US 183, is an Austin Public Health initiative to house survivors of child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence. City officials first approved the facility's $6.8 million acquisition back in 2021 as one of several hotels and motels to be converted into shelter.

Following a construction solicitation earlier this year, City Council voted May 30 to fund the facility's one-year, $8.58 million renovation by STR Constructors, LLC.

SAFE will manage the east side facility once it opens with a capacity of around 60 shelter rooms.