News
Vacant Archer School Building on Charleston’s East Side to be Transformed into Affording Housing for Seniors
Press Release from the City of Charleston
Thanks to a collaboration with the Humanities Foundation, a $42 million rehabilitation of the former and long-vacant Archer School on Nassau Street will be redeveloped into 89 affordable housing units for seniors at or below 60% of the area median income. Construction has begun and is expected to be completed by early 2024.
The Humanities Foundation, in a joint venture with James Doran Company, identified the East Side of Charleston as a priority area for their Affordable Housing Development, Resident and Community Services, and advocacy. Through working with the city of Charleston, community leaders, historic preservation groups and advocacy groups, the Humanities Foundation has identified opportunities to preserve existing affordable housing while also developing new housing opportunities for low- to moderate-income seniors.
The Humanities Foundation purchased the Archer School from the Charleston County School Board in 2020 using funds allocated by the city of Charleston’s Affordable Housing Bond Fund. The CLIMB Fund also provided additional funding to assist with predevelopment costs.
The site will be preserved with new construction added in order to accommodate a total of 89-one- and two-bedroom apartments for seniors at or below 60% of the area median income.