The first building that is part of a multi-million dollar overhaul of the James Cayce Homes in East Nashville is now open.
The first resident moved into the Barrett Manor building Monday.
“It’s like winning the lottery, or the next best thing,” said Artt Horne.
Barrett Manor is a four story building that will feature 70, one bedroom apartments that will house senior, disabled and single residents, many of whom currently live in the Cayce Homes. The building is the first part of the larger $600 million Envision Cayce project. It is a mixed-use, mixed-income plan that will feature 2500 units and address the needs of the neighborhood. Initially, buildings will go up on vacant land, but eventually the existing Cayce Homes buildings will be torn down and replaced.
“By providing a new home to a family, it will re-energize this area,” said Jamie Berry, Director of Communications for the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA). “It will give them a sense of pride for where they live.”
Kirkpatrick Park is the next phase of Envision Cayce. It will feature 94 townhome apartments and a groundbreaking is tentatively scheduled for this Fall.
Berry said safety is a priority throughout the project. Barrett Manor is equipped with 57 security cameras, and each resident must have a key fob to get in and out of the building. In addition, MDHA has added 150 cameras over the last 6 months in the Cayce Homes.
Horne said he can’t wait to welcome guests to his new home.
“Over here, this is a whole different feeling,” said Horne. “It’s a positive feeling.”
A town hall meeting regarding the Envision Cayce project is set for Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. at the Martha O’Bryan Community Center on South 7th Street.
The Envision Cayce project will take several years to complete.
