109-Unit Affordable Project Launched by The NRP Group in Washington, D.C.
The NRP Group, a fully integrated developer, builder, and manager of multifamily housing, has officially announced the financial closing and groundbreaking of a new affordable housing project in partnership with Marshall Heights Community Development Organization (MHCDO). The development, named The Waymark, will deliver 109 affordable residential units in Ward 7 of Washington, D.C., addressing the growing need for accessible housing in the region.
The project is designed to serve a diverse group of residents, with units reserved for individuals and families earning up to 30%, 50%, and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). This initiative reflects a broader commitment to supporting economically vulnerable populations by providing high-quality housing options in well-connected urban locations.
The launch of The Waymark comes at a time when the U.S. housing sector is navigating economic uncertainty and tighter capital markets. Despite these challenges, The NRP Group continues to expand its affordable housing portfolio nationwide, reinforcing its long-term strategy of delivering sustainable and inclusive residential communities.
According to Chris Marshall, Vice President of Development at The NRP Group, the project site presented both challenges and opportunities. While the location required careful planning due to its complexity, it offers exceptional connectivity through nearby public transportation options. The development is situated close to a Metro station and multiple bus routes, ensuring residents have convenient access to key destinations across the city.
He emphasized that The Waymark represents the company’s collaborative approach to tackling difficult but strategically valuable sites. By partnering with mission-driven organizations such as MHCDO, the developer aims to create housing solutions that enable cost-burdened families to live closer to transportation networks, employment hubs, and essential services.
The project is located at 4435 Benning Road NE, just one block from the Benning Road Metro Station. This transit-oriented location enhances mobility for residents, offering seamless connectivity throughout the District. In addition to public transportation access, the neighborhood features bike-share facilities and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making it a highly walkable area. This is particularly significant in a part of the city where land availability is limited and parking resources are constrained.
The timing of the development also aligns with broader urban revitalization efforts underway in the area. Notably, plans for the redevelopment of the RFK Stadium site and the anticipated return of the Washington Commanders in 2030 are expected to drive economic growth. The Waymark’s proximity—just one Metro stop away from the Stadium-Armory station—positions residents to benefit from these transformative developments, including job creation and new infrastructure investments.
The RFK Stadium redevelopment alone is projected to generate approximately 14,000 construction jobs and 2,000 permanent positions, creating new economic opportunities for residents in Ward 7. This strategic location further enhances the long-term value and impact of the housing project.
MHCDO, a community-focused organization with more than four decades of service in Washington, D.C., plays a key role in the initiative. Chairman David Retland highlighted the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting underserved neighborhoods and expressed pride in collaborating with The NRP Group on such a significant development. With its headquarters located just a short distance from the project site, MHCDO is well-positioned to maintain close engagement with residents.
The partnership aims to set a new benchmark for affordable housing by combining quality construction with comprehensive support services. MHCDO plans to provide residents with access to financial literacy programs, job readiness training, and professional development resources. This holistic approach is designed to help individuals and families improve their economic prospects and achieve greater stability.
The Waymark will feature a mix of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, catering to a wide range of household needs. Importantly, 22 units will be designated as permanent supportive housing for individuals at risk of homelessness or those who have previously experienced housing instability.
The nine-story building will include a variety of modern amenities aimed at enhancing residents’ quality of life. The ground floor will house a flexible multi-purpose space for community programs and activities. On the second floor, residents will have access to a fully equipped fitness center and a reservable family room for gatherings and events.
Outdoor spaces have also been thoughtfully designed to encourage community interaction. The development will feature a landscaped front lawn, a playground, and seating areas that promote social engagement. Additionally, a public art installation created by a local artist will be incorporated into the project, contributing to neighborhood identity and visual appeal.
The financing of The Waymark reflects a strong collaboration between public and private sector partners. Key contributors include the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), which provided soft debt financing, and the DC Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA), which acted as the bond issuer. Support for sustainability initiatives was provided by DC Green Bank, while private financing came from KeyBank as the lender and U.S. Bank as the tax credit investor.
Colleen Green, Director of DHCD, emphasized that the project demonstrates the impact of coordinated efforts between government agencies, private institutions, and community organizations. She noted that The Waymark directly addresses the housing needs of District residents while advancing goals related to long-term affordability, equitable development, and economic mobility.
The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area continues to be a key focus for The NRP Group, reflecting confidence in the region’s long-term housing demand. Since its founding in 1994, the company has developed more than 68,000 apartment units and currently manages over 33,000 residences across the United States.
With the groundbreaking of The Waymark, The NRP Group and MHCDO are taking a significant step toward expanding access to affordable housing while fostering inclusive growth and community development in one of the city’s most underserved areas.
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