Providence Housing Authority

Dexter Manor:

Project Status:

Pre-Development and Planning

Project Summary:

A black and white image of the Dextor Manor building

Dexter Manor I, built in 1962, is a 200-unit 10-story elderly/adult disabled/general population high-rise building located on the edge of Providence’s downtown neighborhood. In 1984, an 8-story wing (Dexter Manor II) was added to the building, creating an additional 91 apartments and office space for the PHA’s Administrative Offices. The two wings are collectively referred to as “Dexter Manor” which contains a total of 291 apartments and includes a community room, laundry room, and property management office.

The current unit mix for Dextor Manor is as follows:

120	studios
144	one-bedroom units
27	two-bedroom units
291	Total Units

To preserve and sustain Dexter Manor as a vital source of deeply affordable units in the downtown core of Providence, the buildings require a moderate to substantial renovation. A 2023 draft capital needs assessment observed that the buildings were in fair to good condition; however, individual building components and systems had reached the end of their estimated useful life (EUL). The report specifically identified the following critical and non-critical repairs: roof replacement, exterior wall repairs and building-envelope improvements for energy efficiency, window replacement, water supply and waste plumbing replacement, heating and cooling system equipment replacement, electric system distribution system replacement, ventilation system replacement, and fire alarm control panel. Additionally, the report recommended upgrades to meet current building codes and accessibility standards, including the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) and those under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The project would also include a comprehensive hazardous material inspection and abatement, new kitchens and baths, and a refresh of common areas to enhance resident quality of life.