Remaining residents of The Willows apartment complex are facing relocation as new ownership begins a privately funded redevelopment project, focused on security and transforming the property into a family-friendly community.
The property was bought by the Lee Adrion Company, a Black-owned, Black-led real estate firm with ties to New Orleans East.
The Lee Adrion Company has a portfolio of 1,200 apartment buildings across several states, with the largest footprint in Louisiana.
While the company is ecstatic about the project, they are asking for patience.
“I would love to snap my fingers and make it all better tomorrow, but we know it’s going to take time,” said Erin Earles, chief strategy officer of Lee Adrion.
The project is entirely privately funded, with security improvements as the first priority.
“In the next 30 days, we will continue to improve the safety of the building. We have security presence there, and we’ll continue to meet with the city to make sure we are compliant,” Earles said.
After addressing security, the redevelopment team plans to work on common spaces and create a family-friendly environment.
Eventually, the 19 tenant buildings will be torn down, with the project expected to be completed in about two years.
Semethia Lane, a resident of The Willows for five years, shared her experiences living in the complex.
“Three of my neighbors got killed. The lady lived next door to me the first month that I was living here, and she was killed,” Lane said.
Years ago, residents also reported bats invading the property.
Lane expressed regret about not leaving sooner.
“I should have moved because I felt and listened to my family and friends. I would have been out of here,” she said.
Now, Lane is struggling with the uncertainty of relocation and fears becoming homeless again.
While the move-out deadline is this week, the company has assured that the timeline is flexible.
“The new ownership group has been very intentional about ensuring that residents that need to be relocated have a seamless transition,” said Councilmember Jason Hughes, “Relocation assistance, financial assistance has been provided.”
READ MORE:Residents of The Willows in New Orleans East face relocation as redevelopment begins
