The Route 34 corridor is a long, narrow stretch of land which separates the West River, Dwight and Hill neighborhoods in New Haven. It has been the site of recent development after being vacant since the 1950s, when it was proposed to be a highway.

Kenneth Boroson Architects was contracted by a partnership of two non-profit organizations, the NHP Foundation and the West River Self Help Investment Plan (WRSHIP), to design a new neighborhood on 4.3 vacant acres. The property is bordered by Ella Grasso Boulevard, Tyler Street, Legion Avenue, and Martin Luther King Boulevard/North Frontage Road.

The new community (formerly known as MLK/Tyler Street Family Housing) will include a total of 56 rental units and an office meeting center in 11 buildings. It will also provide street-level parking to accommodate 60 vehicles. The site is adjacent to the International Peace Garden which will be further developed in a subsequent phase.

Apartment size will range from 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom. All of the structures are designed for “Passive House” certification in compliance with PHIUS+ criteria – an energy efficient building standard which will result in low utility bills.

All units will be classified as affordable, with varying income requirements. In 2021, the development received LIHTC funding (low-income housing tax credits) from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA).