Preserving Dunbar: School conversion won't take place in 2021
The plan to convert Dunbar School on Smith Ave. into affordable, senior housing has encountered a setback. Shelter Investments Development Corporation (SIDC) has learned the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) didn’t approve their housing and historic tax credits application. Of the 160 submissions submitted, 35 were chosen.
In April, Ned Fowler, president of SIDC, acknowledged the possibility the project wouldn’t receive the necessary funding to begin groundbreaking later this year. At the time, he stated that the team would “reconvene to discuss next steps” if they found themselves in this position. On Friday, Fowler confirmed SIDC is still working to move forward with the project.
“We’re treating this as a delay and not a defeat. Development is a risky business. We’re committed to bringing this to Lexington and Davidson County.”
Currently, SIDC has submitted applications to additional sources to secure funding. It’s their hope they will receive these awards which would strengthen their next application to NCHFA. It’ll be submitted in 2022. If accepted, Fowler anticipates construction beginning in late 2022.
Advertisement
https://www.yadkinriverkeeper.org/events
Dunbar School is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Charlotte (CDC). SIDC has a proposal to buy established with the organization. Since receiving confirmation from the NCHFA, they’ve had a call with the CDC to discuss extending the offer.
“They’re considering it,” said Fowler. “I don’t think they have any other legitimate interest. This is an almost $20 million dollar effort.”
Earlier this year, Davidson Local published a series of investigative articles about the building that once served as the all-Black high school in Lexington. Members of the neighborhood and alumnus of the school have shared their hesitation, frustration and displeasure about the current proposed use. According to Fowler, SIDC has been able to make progress with some citizens who weren’t in favor of the converting the school into apartments. .
“I think we’ve won over some friends in the neighborhood. We’re willing to continue to have those conversations with those who are skeptical. We want to be a good neighbor and bring something that’s of great value to the neighborhood.”
To contact Fowler, he can be reached at efowler@nwrha.com.
Click here for more information about the proposal for Dunbar School.
