Villages of Hayti Financing Secured, Major Investment in Durham’s Historic Black Community
Villages of Hayti project launches long-awaited transformation of the former Fayette Place site
DURHAM, N.C. — A transformative investment aimed at restoring opportunity in one of Durham’s most historically significant Black neighborhoods is officially moving forward. The Durham Housing Authority (DHA), in partnership with Durham Community Partners, has announced the financial closing of Villages of Hayti, a major affordable housing development planned for the historic Hayti district.
The milestone marks the official launch of redevelopment at the long-vacant Fayette Place site, which has remained unused since the early 2000s. Once complete, Phase 1 will bring 252 fully affordable apartments to the community, representing one of the most significant affordable housing investments in Durham in recent years.
Revitalizing a Historic Black Community
Hayti holds deep historical significance as a center of Black entrepreneurship, culture, and community leadership in Durham. For many residents and community leaders, the Villages of Hayti project represents more than new housing—it symbolizes a renewed commitment to reinvestment in a neighborhood whose legacy helped shape the city.
“This milestone reflects what is possible when strong partnerships align around community priorities,” said James Triano, Executive Vice President at Harmony Housing Affordable Development. “Public-private collaboration allows us to leverage critical resources while honoring Hayti’s legacy and restoring opportunity for future generations.”
252 Affordable Homes Planned
Villages of Hayti will be developed as a 100% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) community. All apartments will be reserved for households earning between 30% and 80% of Area Median Income (AMI), helping expand access to safe and affordable housing in Durham.
The approximately 20-acre development will include:
- 81 one-bedroom apartments
- 113 two-bedroom apartments
- 58 three-bedroom apartments
- Nine garden-style walk-up residential buildings
In accordance with housing guidelines, 26 units will be designated as mobility-accessible housing, serving residents with disabilities or individuals experiencing homelessness.
Community Spaces and Amenities
The development is designed to foster community connections while offering amenities that support residents’ daily needs.
Plans include:
- A 4,000-square-foot community building
- Multipurpose gathering spaces
- Computer and office center
- Fitness room
- 1,700-square-foot playground
- Covered picnic pavilion and shaded seating areas
Located less than 1.5 miles from downtown Durham and within walking distance of a GoDurham transit stop, the site will provide convenient access to employment, education, and cultural resources.
Strong Public and Private Investment
The financial close represents a major collaborative effort between public agencies and private development partners.
The project includes:
- $17 million investment from the City of Durham
- $6.2 million ground lease note
- Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit equity
- Additional public and private financing partners
Development partners include Gilbane Development and F7 International Development, working alongside Harmony Housing Affordable Development.
James “Monte” Montague, president of F7 International Development, emphasized the importance of community-focused development.
“As a Black-owned, community-based development firm, we approach projects like Villages of Hayti with a deep sense of responsibility,” Montague said. “This is about creating long-term affordability, preserving cultural identity, and opening pathways for future homeownership and generational wealth.”
Community Voices Shaped the Vision
Since 2017, DHA and its partners have engaged residents and community stakeholders through surveys, meetings, and the Hayti Community Advisory Committee (CAC) to help guide the development.
Community engagement efforts were led by BLWall Consulting.
“Reclaiming a thriving Black community begins with honoring the people who carried its legacy forward,” said Bridget Wall-Lennon, president of BLWall Consulting. “Ensuring residents had a voice helped shape a development that reflects Hayti’s history, resilience, and sense of belonging.”
Residents also played a key role in selecting the project’s name—Villages of Hayti—to honor the neighborhood’s cultural identity.
A Foundation for Future Phases
Phase 1 is only the beginning of a broader redevelopment vision. Future phases are expected to include:
- Additional multifamily housing
- For-sale townhomes to support homeownership
- Commercial spaces for local businesses
- Cultural and community spaces envisioned by residents
Construction on Phase 1 is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion projected for late 2027.
Durham Housing Authority Interim CEO Ashanti Brown said the project reflects a long-standing promise to restore opportunity in the historic neighborhood.
“Hayti has long symbolized Black excellence and resilience,” Brown said. “Villages of Hayti honors that legacy while building a future rooted in stability, opportunity, and belonging.”
Learn More
More information about the project is available at
durhamcommunitypartners.com
Photos courtesy of Durham Housing Authority