DHCD is doing its part to help projects “go green.” Galen Terrace, which DHCD funded in Fiscal Year 2006, is the first completely “green” rehabilitated property in the District. When the owners of Galen Terrace, located in Anacostia at 1649 W Street, SE, decided to sell the property, the tenants exercised their right to purchase the property. During the process, the Galen Terrace Tenant Association and its development partners (NHT/Enterprise and Somerset Development Corporation) decided to include Green Design features as part the building’s rehabilitation.

The Green features of this property include the use of Energy Star appliances, double-paned windows, heat-reflective roofing, and water barrels to collect and reuse rain water. These features will help make the property more energy efficient, which is not only more environmentally-friendly, but will also result in lower utility bills and cost-savings to residents.

Other renovations include new kitchens and bathrooms, secure access entry, new HVAC system, improved lighting and fencing, the addition of an on-site property management office, and the addition of a community room with a computer lab.

Galen Terrace held its Grand Re-Opening in June. DHCD provided $3,252,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding to assist with acquisition costs. By helping the Galen Terrace Tenant Association with acquiring this building, the Department was able to preserve affordable housing and to help the residents of Galen Terrace remain in the neighborhood they call home.