Historic Renovation to Boost Affordable Housing in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, LA — A significant step toward addressing the need for affordable housing in East Baton Rouge Parish is underway, as Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome announced the renovation of the Historic Prince Hall Masonic Temple on North Boulevard. The project will transform the landmark into 46 mixed-income units as part of a larger effort to increase affordable housing across the parish.

The announcement was made during a ceremony at the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, hosted by Dr. Ralph Slaughter, MW Grand Master. The initiative adds to the Broome administration's track record of supporting the development of more than 1,500 housing units over the past eight years.

“This project is a vital step toward ensuring all families in Baton Rouge have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes,” Mayor Broome stated. She highlighted the broader effort to renovate historic properties, including the Prince Hall Masonic Temple and the Hotel Lincoln, as part of a parish-wide initiative encompassing multi-family complexes and single-family homes.

The Prince Hall Masonic Temple is one of six developments currently in progress in North Baton Rouge, South Baton Rouge, and Mid-City. Mayor Broome emphasized the critical role affordable housing plays in strengthening communities and providing long-term stability.

“Affordable housing provides security and opportunity for families and individuals, helping to reduce poverty and create healthier, more prosperous communities,” she said.

The Mayor’s Office of Community Development has played a pivotal role in advancing these projects. The following City-Parish investments are underway to expand affordable housing options:

• Hotel Lincoln Housing Development
  • Renovation of 12 mixed-income units in a historic mixed-use development.
  • Funding: $1.17 million in HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) funds.
• The Villas at Mohican
  • Construction of 58 mixed-income units near Plank Road.
  • Funding: Up to $2 million in Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Housing Dollars.
  • Partner: Louisiana Housing Corporation.
• Dayton Street Housing Development
  • Construction of four homeownership units.
  • Funding: $367,408 in HOME funds.
  • Partner: Habitat for Humanity.
• 1335 North Residences at the Historic Prince Hall Masonic Temple
  • Renovation of 46 mixed-income units in a historic mixed-use development.
  • Funding: $2 million in ERAP Housing Dollars.
• Melrose III Housing Development
  • Construction of two housing units.
  • Funding: $264,092 in HOME and ERAP funds.
• Melrose IV Housing Development
  • Construction of 10 housing units.
  • Funding: $360,000 in HOME funds.
  • Partner: Louisiana Housing Corporation.

The renovation of the Prince Hall Masonic Temple stands as a symbol of progress, linking Baton Rouge’s historic roots with its future. Mayor Broome’s administration continues to prioritize affordable housing, reflecting a commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities for residents across East Baton Rouge Parish.