Rebuilding with Purpose: How MLK Apartments Reflect the Future of Affordable Housing in Hartford

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

In Hartford’s North End, that first step began with a bold vision: to transform an aging residential apartment community into a thriving, sustainable community for generations to come.

Originally built in 1969, the MLK Apartments redevelopment located at 79-107 Van Block Avenue in Hartford, CT, is more than a construction project—it’s a commitment to equity, livability, and revitalization through thoughtful design and strategic execution.

Led by LaRosa Groups, this multi-phase affordable housing development is reshaping a seven-acre site from eight deteriorating buildings into 155 energy-efficient, modern units across 15 new buildings. The project reflects a long-term investment in the local community—and the challenges, innovations, and lessons behind it are already serving as a model for future development.

Navigating the Unexpected with MLK Apartments: A Redevelopment Story Rooted in Problem-Solving

The MLK Apartments project officially broke ground in May 2024, with construction expected to be complete by late December 2025. From the start, Project Manager Dan Samuel and the LaRosa team knew the project would require more than standard execution.

“When we started excavating, we found foundations that weren’t in the original plans,” shared Samuel. “In one case, there was an unexpected discovery of buried foundations, which added a whole layer of complexity. Every time something like that comes up, you can’t proceed—you need containment, environmental protocols, and disposal planning.”

Unexpected site conditions—such as buried debris, concrete foundations, and storm lines not found on original plans—posed early hurdles. “There was a significant amount of unrecorded infrastructure, including concrete walls and asbestos, that had to be properly removed,” explained Samuel.

These discoveries are common in large-scale redevelopments—but what set LaRosa apart was their proactive approach.

• Multiple contractors were brought in to specialize in different building sections, speeding up response time and flexibility.

• LaRosa worked closely with architects, engineers, and government partners, developing solutions in real-time as new challenges emerged.

• Materials were secured early to anticipate and minimize supply chain delays and tariff impacts.

  
  

“We don’t just present problems—we present solutions,” Dan Samuel emphasized. “Our job is to help the owner succeed.”

The Power of Preconstruction Planning

Anticipating supply shortages, weather delays, construction hiccups, and having contingency plans are standard protocols for seasoned construction companies to maximize productivity.

As noted by Kyma Ganzer, Preconstruction Manager at LaRosa, "Preconstruction planning is where project success is built. The more work we do up front—coordination, budgeting, identifying risks—the smoother everything flows once we break ground." LaRosa’s approach to preconstruction planning ensures every detail is anticipated and mapped out, avoiding costly delays and scope creep.

Innovative Living That Reflects the Community’s Needs

Beyond the brick and mortar, MLK Apartments has been designed to meet the evolving needs of residents—both in form and function.

Some of the project’s standout innovations include:

• Smart lock technology for secure, smartphone-based unit entry

• EV charging stations to future-proof parking and transportation needs

• Energy Star-rated efficient appliances and high-performance insulation to reduce utility costs

• Wi-Fi throughout all buildings for universal access

• Amazon lockers, a community room with a kitchen, a movie theatre, and a fitness center to foster quality of life

These features reflect a larger LaRosa philosophy: to build spaces that feel both functional and forward-looking.

Value Engineering in Action

Delivering quality while staying on budget isn’t just a promise—it’s a core value. Samuel recalled one example of smart value engineering that led to significant savings:

“There was a design feature that looked great on paper, but we realized during construction that it added no value to the resident experience—and it was driving the cost up. We were able to eliminate that detail and save the client thousands and thousands of dollars.”

That ability to make informed, cost-saving decisions on behalf of the owner speaks to LaRosa’s unique role as not just a builder, but a trusted partner.

What the MLK Apartments Project Says About LaRosa Groups

Every project brings new lessons—and LaRosa Groups embraces that growth. From MLK Apartments, the takeaways are clear:

• Always plan for the unexpected, especially in older sites

• The right team, technology, and flexibility can turn setbacks into opportunities

• Community-focused housing must go beyond units—it must include access, dignity, and long-term value

• Proactive preconstruction planning and construction management save time, cost, and stress for all stakeholders

  
  

“We approach every job with integrity,” said Samuel. “That means being transparent, responsive, and focused on what’s best for the project and the people it serves.”

Looking Ahead

The MLK Apartments project is a testament to what affordable housing can be when it’s approached with care, collaboration, award-winning expertise, and innovation. Guided by LaRosa Groups’ commitment to solving problems before they escalate, and building with the end user in mind, this project is setting a new standard in Hartford—and beyond.

“The MLK Apartments project reflects our commitment to building with purpose—creating communities that not only meet today’s needs but elevate the standard for future community housing. We’re proud to partner with organizations that share our vision for long-term impact, quality, and respect for the people living in our communities,” said James LaRosa, CEO, LaRosa Groups.

Interested in working with a team that builds beyond the blueprint?

Contact LaRosa Groups to learn more about our affordable housing and redevelopment expertise. Contact us today!