Overview
Preserving legacy and meeting the housing need
The Old Hattiesburg High School, a Victorian-inspired brick structure built in 1911, was an iconic landmark in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, that served generations of students up until its closure in 1959. The structure fulfilled years of service, later housing the school district’s headquarters and then an antiques mall. It was regarded as a vital part of the community's identity, earning its designation as a Mississippi landmark and entry on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
By 2001, the building fell into disrepair, surviving significant damage from Hurricane Katrina, several tornados, and an arson fire. Attempts to restore the property never fully penciled until local developer Intervest Corporation stepped in to save the landmark structure, transforming the former high school building into a 74-unit affordable senior housing development known as Preservation Crossing.
Project Details
Location
Hattiesburg, MS
Size
74 homes
Tenancy
Seniors
Total Project Cost
$15.4 million
Total LIHTCs
$9.4 million in 9% Federal
Total Historic Tax Credits
$2.8 million in Federal and $3.5 million in State
Project Amenities
Energy Star-rated Appliances
Courtyard with Gazebo
Community Room
Community Kitchen and Dining Area
Elevators
Picnic Area
Central Heating and AC
Handrails and Grab Bars
Awards & Recognition
2021 AHF Readers Choice Award
Historic Rehab Finalist
01
Challenge
Revitalizing a Landmark
After several decades of sitting vacant, the structure endured extensive damage from exposure to the elements: a collapsed roof, fallen brick walls, and structural deterioration. Preserving the structure's architectural features posed a challenge, particularly in areas of the building where there were little to no remaining original materials to work with. New construction materials used to replicate the structure's historic features needed to be strikingly similar to the original and had to undergo approval from both the Mississippi Department of Archives & History and the National Park Service, while also meeting current energy and building standards.
Other architectural hurdles included fitting 74 apartment homes into a 100-year-old school building with large classroom-sized layouts and helping ensure accessibility for seniors across the various floor levels.
02
Solution
Financing and Partnership
To make Preservation Crossing a reality, Intervest Corporation put together a financing team to tap into federal, state and local resources. Hunt Capital Partners syndicated $12.1 million in federal low-income housing and historic tax credits through Hunt Capital Partners Tax Credit Fund 30. Monarch Private Capital syndicated $3.5 million in state historic tax credits through a proprietary fund. Mississippi Home Corporation provided a $500,000 loan through its Housing Trust Fund.
The project team was led by Intervest Corporation as the general partner, developer, and property manager. Wallace Architects served as the project architect. Harris Construction Services served as the general contractor.
03
Result
Transforming History into Homes
Through an adaptive reuse of the high school building, Preservation Crossing exemplifies how public-private partnerships can successfully save historic structures with major community significance and transform them into high-quality housing for seniors. Preservation Crossing preserves the charm of The Old Hattiesburg High School’s historic architecture while introducing a mix of 56 one- and 18 two-bedroom apartment homes, complete with contemporary amenities tailored to seniors aged 55 and older. Seven homes are designated for disabled individuals. Residents benefit from a range of enriching supportive services which includes health services and food support.
Preservation Crossing re-opened its doors to the Mississippi community in winter 2020.
