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After years of planning and construction, the Page Woodson development has completed its final phase of residential units at NE 4th St and N High Ave. It is a transformational project that honors the history of Northeast Oklahoma City while creating much-needed housing and community space. Hundreds of housing units are now available, with an emphasis on affordability for a significant portion of these units.
The sleek design and thoughtful preservation make this a unique and impactful project. This historic site has now evolved into a vibrant mixed-use community that preserves the past while embracing the future. It is a striking visual to see the restored school building, alongside the new housing units with a modern design.
Located in the John F. Kennedy neighborhood, Page Woodson opened its doors in the early 1900s as the Lowell School and in 1934 became the all-Black Douglass High School. It was later known as F.D. Moon Middle School, then Page Woodson School until it closed in 1993. After its closure in 1993, the building sat vacant for 20 years before an ambitious redevelopment plan took shape. The first phase preserved the historic structure, converting it into 60 affordable housing units and added 68 additional affordable units using tax credits and other economic development tools. Subsequent phases added 30 workforce units using the City’s Affordable Housing GOLT funds, and market-rate units underwritten with conventional financing.
With the completion of Phase IV, three new buildings have added 214 market-rate residential units, including 14 live/work units, bringing the site total to nearly 500 units. This project directly meets the growing need in OKC. A 2021 Housing Affordability Study commissioned by the City of OKC highlighted a significant shortage of affordable housing for low-to-moderate-income residents, emphasizing the need to enhance both the quality and quantity of such units. Based on population trends, Oklahoma City could require upwards of 70,000 new housing units by 2030 to accommodate its growth.
Phase V will install an African American Commemorative Plaza to serve as a public gathering space, celebrating the contributions of educators and the community. The final phase of this massive project will be closed out with the construction of a commercial restaurant space. Not only will the community plaza showcase the history of the school and the community, it will physically link Page Woodson to the nearby historic Booker T. Washington Park. This enduring tribute ensures that Page Woodson’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.
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