Related Urban Development Group has given new life to a landmark in Miami’s historic Little Havana that has long been home to extremely low-income seniors.
Originally built over five decades ago, the 13-story Haley Sofge 800 adjacent to LoanDepot Park has undergone a substantial gut renovation, addressing electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems as well as enhancing the exterior aesthetics, common areas, and all 240 units.
PROJECT DETAILS
DEVELOPER: Related Urban Development Group
ARCHITECT: SR Architects
GENERAL CONTRACTORS: Fortune Urban Construction and Related Urban Construction
MAJOR FUNDERS: Wells Fargo; Miami-Dade County; Florida Housing Finance Corp.
The public housing building also remains true to its roots, continuing to serve the same residents prior to the renovation and providing affordable housing with the units undergoing a Rental Assistance Demonstration program Section 18 blend conversion. As part of this transformation, studios were reconfigured into one-bedroom units to create more comfortable and functional living spaces tailored to the needs of the senior residents.
“All 240 units are now brand new but serving the same, elderly, extremely low-income population,” says Andrew Velo-Arias, director of acquisitions and development. “This renovation ensures that the building remains a supportive home for those who it need it most, while enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.”
Courtesy Related Group
Haley Sofge is a key part of the River Parc master plan, one of Miami-Dade County’s most ambitious affordable housing redevelopments. The reopening of the building in August 2024 marked the completion of the sixth phase of the River Parc redevelopment. Upon completion of the 10 phases in 2027, the master plan will span over 2,500 units of affordable, workforce, and market-rate apartments.The upgrades for the $95.2 million preservation project went beyond just modernizing the building. Residents have access to a refreshed multipurpose room for social gatherings, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a computer lab. A dedicated domino room reflects the cultural fabric of the community, and the Knela Beauty Salon, which has been a staple in the River Parc community for over 15 years, has a new location in the building.