UMOM Began Construction on Phoenix Housing Project
The $64 million development will provide 192 affordable housing units near 39th and Grand avenues.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Philanthropy
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UMOM New Day Centers has officially begun construction on Salamanca Square, a 192-unit affordable housing complex in Phoenix. The project aims to combat the local housing shortage by providing homes for families earning up to 60% of the area median income.
Why it matters
The development serves as a critical effort to increase the inventory of affordable homes in a high-demand market. By utilizing federal tax credits and a partnership with the city, the nonprofit is filling a gap for low-income residents.
The Salamanca Square project carries a $64 million price tag for its 192 apartments. Tenants must earn a maximum of 60% of the area median income, which equates to $67,440 annually for a family of four.
The players
UMOM New Day Centers
This nonprofit organization is a leading provider of emergency shelter and affordable housing services in the Phoenix area.
Alhambra School District
This local education agency previously held the land used for the development before determining it was not required for school purposes.
The details
The project is situated at the intersection of 39th and Grand avenues on land acquired from the city for $2.3 million. The development features units ranging from one to four bedrooms and utilizes the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program to maintain affordability.
Timeline
In early 2025, the city purchased the project land from the school district.
The expected completion date for the project is 2027.
Market Landscape
This development follows the funding framework established by the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program to stimulate affordable housing construction. It highlights a growing trend of municipal-nonprofit partnerships aimed at revitalizing underutilized land for social equity purposes.
This project will eventually offer 192 units for families meeting specific income eligibility requirements, potentially easing housing competition in the area. Local residents may observe construction activity near 39th and Grand avenues through the 2027 completion date.
The takeaway
The project illustrates how strategic land transfers between public agencies and nonprofits can effectively bypass barriers to affordable housing development. Interested residents can track income eligibility requirements as the 2027 completion date approaches.
Further reading
For additional context on charitable development efforts, visit our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AZ Central.
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