The Barrio Neighborhood Planning Committee, in partnership with the Woda Group Development Company, is taking a major step toward addressing the community’s pressing need for affordable housing. Their latest initiative, the Tecova Terrace Project, will introduce 80 affordable apartment units to the Barrio neighborhood, providing much-needed housing for low-income families.
The planned development, located at Southeast 28th and Aldridge Street, will feature a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, all designed to support families struggling with rising housing costs.
A Neighborhood in Need
Theresa Kennedy, President of the Barrio Neighborhood Planning Committee, emphasized the urgent demand for affordable housing in the area.
“47% of our families have an income of $25,000 or less,” Kennedy stated. “It’s almost half of our families, and so what we are excited about is that there will be affordable housing of at least 80 units of apartments from one to three bedrooms.”
The Barrio neighborhood, one of Amarillo’s oldest communities, has long struggled with outdated housing. Many homes in the area have been passed down through multiple generations, but a significant portion of residents—38%—are renters who lack access to quality, affordable housing.
Economic Growth and Community Impact
The Tecova Terrace project is not just about housing; it is expected to spark economic growth in the neighborhood, which has recently seen an influx of new businesses. By offering housing priced at 30%, 50%, and 60% of the area’s median income, the development will allow residents to remain in the neighborhood while also attracting new investments.
Jason Lain, Senior Vice President of Development for Woda Cooper Companies, expressed his enthusiasm for the strong community backing.
“I don’t believe in my 20 years of history in development that I have ever seen so much support,” Lain said. “But what I love most is that we are able to pour into what their mission is and that they believe in and what our mission is as well.”
City Support and Funding
The Amarillo City Council has recognized the importance of this project, approving a 9% tax credit application to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for Woda Copper. Additional endorsements have come from Amarillo ISD and Amarillo Housing First, reinforcing the broad support for the project.
Timeline for Construction
While the project is still in its early stages, construction on Tecova Terrace is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed by 2027. Once finished, the development will provide safe, modern, and affordable housing options for families in need, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of the Barrio neighborhood.
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