New Baton Rouge Apartment Complex Brings Accessible, Affordable Housing Near Amazon Facility
BATON ROUGE — In a move aimed at easing housing costs and expanding accessible options for workers in North Baton Rouge, The Reserve at Joor Place, a new affordable apartment complex, has officially opened its doors. Positioned near the bustling Cortana Amazon facility, the development provides more than 360 units with amenities tailored for working families, particularly those employed at nearby businesses.
The complex, located off Joor Road, has quickly gained attention for its affordability and accessibility—a significant aspect that has already made a difference for residents like Diamond Jonise. At just 25 years old, Jonise is navigating life after a tragic car accident left her paralyzed from the waist down. For her, the Reserve at Joor Place offers more than just housing; it’s a rare and essential safe space.
“I didn’t realize how many things I’d taken for granted until I lost my mobility,” Jonise explained, describing the challenges of everyday tasks in traditional apartments. "Simple things like getting in the shower or reaching the sink can take me so much longer." Now, with a unit designed to accommodate wheelchair accessibility, Jonise says her quality of life has improved in ways she hadn’t thought possible.
The development’s founder, Tom Delahaye, knows firsthand how crucial these design elements are. As a wheelchair user, Delahaye was committed to creating a living environment where accessibility isn’t an afterthought. From wider doorways to lower countertops and roll-in showers, each unit is designed to meet ADA standards and make daily life easier for residents like Jonise.
“It was important to me to create a place where everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, could feel truly at home,” Delahaye shared. “The concept of accessibility goes beyond ramps and elevators; it’s about making every part of the living experience more manageable and dignified.”
This dedication to accessibility and affordability has resonated with the community, especially as housing costs continue to climb in Baton Rouge. The Reserve at Joor Place offers spacious units at lower-than-market rates, a rare find in the area. Many of the units are already leased, with the remaining apartments expected to go quickly as demand grows among local workers, especially those employed at Amazon’s nearby fulfillment center.
“Oftentimes, people working nearby are living month-to-month,” Delahaye added. “It’s fulfilling to be able to offer a place they can afford, where they don’t have to compromise on safety or comfort.”
Beyond affordable housing, Delahaye has broader plans for the surrounding area, with a commitment to community development. He donated a 14-acre plot adjoining the complex he envisions as a future grocery store and shopping center. This development would address what many see as a “food desert” in the neighborhood, providing easier access to essential goods for North Baton Rouge residents. Delahaye is also planning to construct a senior living facility on the property, aiming to create a multi-generational space that serves the needs of residents from all walks of life.
For Jonise, the combination of affordability and thoughtful design at The Reserve at Joor Place has made a world of difference. “Knowing that my home was designed by someone who understands what it’s like to face physical challenges makes me feel like I’m part of a community that really cares,” she said.
As Baton Rouge continues to grow, the Reserve at Joor Place stands out as a model for inclusive, community-centered development—a place where workers, families, and individuals facing unique challenges can all feel at home.
