On March 5, the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated James Down Towers Apartments, a $52 million modernization project that revitalizes one of Southern Nevada’s important senior affordable housing communities.
Located at 5000 W. Alta Drive, James Down Towers was originally constructed in 1972. Through an extensive rehabilitation effort, SNRHA has preserved and transformed this critical affordable housing asset, ensuring that 200 apartment homes remain available to seniors with incomes between 30 and 50 percent of area median income.
Apartments range in size from 445 square feet to 800 square feet, including 198 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom units. All units have been fully renovated with upgraded kitchens, baths, new flooring and contemporary finishes, while layouts were reconfigured to improve functionality. The community is Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible and includes several fully accessible units.
Additionally, structural reinforcements and roof replacements — as well as significant upgrades to waste, mechanical and electrical systems — strengthened the buildings’ long-term integrity.
The newly renovated community is robust with resident amenities including an outdoor shuffleboard court, picnic and pet areas, a fitness and wellness center, a salon and a computer room/library — facilities designed to support active, healthy and connected aging.
Renovations were made possible through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Rental Assistance Demonstration program and a Section 18 blend, which enabled SNRHA to leverage federal resources to preserve and modernize the property while maintaining long-term affordability.
The grand opening ceremony featured remarks from Nancy Brune, Las Vegas City Councilmember and SNRHA board chair; Lewis Jordan, executive director SNRHA; Brian Knudsen, Las Vegas City Councilmember; Sonny Vinuya, outreach director, State of Nevada; and Benden Parker of Cobblestone Construction.
“James Down Towers represents our deep commitment to preserving affordable housing in Southern Nevada,” Jordan said. “This investment ensures that residents not only have a safe and stable place to live, but a modern, accessible community designed to support their health, independence and dignity for decades to come. We are proud to play a role in safeguarding this vital asset and strengthening the foundation of affordable housing in the region.”
“Cobblestone Construction is honored to have served in the renovation of the James Down Towers Apartments, Parker said. “This project reflects the shared commitment to our community and our dedication to strengthen and enhance the quality of life for the residents who call it home. Cobblestone is grateful for its partnership with the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority and the many local trade professionals whose expertise and hard work brought this vision to life.”
The James Down Towers renovation is part of SNRHA’s broader strategy to preserve and expand affordable housing options throughout Southern Nevada, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to high-quality housing in thriving communities.
For more information about James Down Towers and other housing initiatives, Visit snvrha.org.
The Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority was established on Jan. 1, 2010, for the purpose of consolidating three housing authorities: Las Vegas Housing Authority, Housing Authority of Clark County, North Las Vegas Housing Authority. The SNRHA’s Board of Commissioners is comprised of City Council members from the city of Las Vegas, city of North Las Vegas, city of Henderson, two Clark County Board Commissioners, and four (4) SNRHA Resident Commissioners, one from each jurisdiction. The mission of the SNRHA is to provide safe, sanitary and affordable housing to eligible residents within our jurisdictions, and to provide an environment that fosters independence, self-sufficiency and community pride. For information, visit snvrha.org
