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Council approves 50-year ground lease to redevelop historic Melrose School site with senior and affordable units
Summary
The council authorized a 50-year ground lease with Melrose Housing Partners LLC to convert the historic Melrose school site into a mixed-use project: a library on the first floor, senior housing on floors two and three, and adjacent affordable housing (about 27 units). Public commenters supported the project but raised concerns about senior-access and noise.
The Memphis City Council on May 12 approved a resolution authorizing a 50-year ground lease with Melrose Housing Partners LLC to redevelop the historic Melrose school building and adjacent property into multifamily residential units, including senior housing and about 27 affordable one- and two-bedroom units.
Councilwoman Logan introduced the resolution and said the committee recommended approval. Residents from the Orange Mound neighborhood described the site as a long-neglected community hub and urged the council to move forward. "We need a win in Orange Mound," said Denise Williams Green, who described the Melrose building's history as a neighborhood anchor and asked the council to approve the ground lease to restore community services.
Glenda Hicks, a resident who said she listened to the committee session, raised concerns about seniors' need for serenity and whether the design would protect older residents from noise and ensure accessibility. Ashley Cash, director of Housing and Community Development, responded that the existing building is three stories with the bottom floor serving as a library, and that floors two and three would be dedicated 100% to seniors with elevator access; she added that adjacent housing would include roughly 27 affordable units.
Council discussion emphasized compliance with building codes and the entitlement process; Logan and colleagues said the project has passed entitlement review and meets building standards. Council members voted to approve the ground lease following public comment.
Council members said they expect further review of design details (including fire and accessibility measures) and follow-up to ensure senior residents' needs are addressed during final design and construction.
