Workforce Housing Project in New Port Richey Scheduled to Break Ground Q1 2026, Pending Final Approvals

Alexander Goshen, a Fort Lauderdale-based development firm, has announced a strategic partnership with an affiliate of national multifamily investor Avanti Residential to develop Walden Pond, a new mixed-income multifamily community in New Port Richey, Florida. The $30 million project is expected to break ground in the first quarter of 2026, pending final permitting and approvals from local authorities.

Situated on nearly nine acres just west of U.S. Highway 19, on the site of a former mobile home park, Walden Pond will bring 125 well-designed rental apartments to a growing region in need of quality housing. The community will offer a diverse mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, resilience, and community connection.

“This project reflects a thoughtful approach to the future of housing in New Port Richey,” said Miles Alexander III, Founder and Principal of Alexander Goshen. “Our partnership with Avanti Residential brings additional expertise and long-term vision to the development. Together, we’re creating a resilient, vibrant community that aligns with the city’s evolving housing priorities.”

The project will include three four-story residential buildings with ground-level parking, incorporating flood-resilient design features informed by the historic October 2024 storm surge. Planned amenities include a dog park, pickleball court, children’s playground, and landscaped open spaces to foster walkability and neighborhood interaction.

Financed through HUD and other state and local sources, Walden Pond supports the growing demand for workforce housing in the Tampa Bay region and demonstrates the impact of strong public-private collaboration.

Avanti Residential, through its affiliated investment platform led by Christopher Martiner, brings a proven track record in affordable and workforce housing development utilizing LIHTC financing and innovative capital structuring.

Former housing department official to help lead Florida real estate firm’s growth

Alexander Goshen, a Fort Lauderdale-based real estate development and investment firm with projects across Florida and Atlanta, continues to strengthen its executive team with the addition of Kayon Henderson as chief operating officer.

Henderson brings more than 17 years of leadership experience in organizational development and operations, with a strong background in nonprofit development and municipal government. In her new role, she will oversee the firm's day-to-day operations and help drive strategic growth.

Originally from Jamaica, Henderson brings a global perspective and a deep-rooted passion for community empowerment to her leadership role.

“I’m honored to join Alexander Goshen at such a pivotal time in its growth,” said Henderson. “Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a commitment to create equitable, sustainable housing solutions that uplift local communities. I’m excited to bring that same passion to a company that shares those values and makes a meaningful impact through thoughtful, transformative development.”

“Kayon’s expertise in housing and community development, along with her proven track record in operational excellence and strategic leadership, makes her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Miles Alexander III, principal and managing partner of Alexander Goshen. 

Prior to joining Alexander Goshen, Henderson spent 12 years with the City of Tampa, most recently serving as director of housing and community development. She led high-impact initiatives across the housing spectrum, including rental and homeownership programs, financing strategies, rehabilitation, preservation, new construction, and demolition.

She managed a housing budget exceeding $100 million, directing strategic investments to stabilize neighborhoods and promote sustainable growth. Henderson also served on local and national boards advocating for programs and funding to improve access to safe, quality housing for vulnerable populations.

Alexander Goshen has developed nearly $400 million in commercial and residential real estate projects. It currently has active projects in South Florida, Fort Myers, and St. Petersburg. 

Henderson’s appointment reflects Alexander Goshen’s ongoing investment in executive leadership to elevate its operational capacity and community impact.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal and Organizational Communication and a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Florida. Henderson plans to pursue a doctorate in Public Policy this August.

Real estate veteran to lead multi-state initiatives delivering equitable housing solutions

Alexander Goshen, a Fort Lauderdale-based real estate development and investment firm with projects across Florida and Atlanta, continues to strengthen its executive team with the addition of Verlyn Foley as Vice President of Affordable Housing for its AG Urban division.

In this role, Foley will lead the strategic development and execution of affordable housing initiatives across Florida and other markets. Her responsibilities include overseeing projects from site acquisition through stabilization and compliance, structuring complex financing deals—including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), public-private partnerships, and HUD programs—and navigating local, state, and federal regulations to ensure compliance.

“Verlyn’s visionary leadership, expertise in real estate development and ability to navigate the complexities of affordable housing, along with her excellence in strategic leadership, make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Miles Alexander III, principal and managing partner of Alexander Goshen.

Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Foley brings a global perspective and deep personal commitment to community uplift through housing. Before joining Alexander Goshen, Foley founded VOB Development, an Atlanta-based real estate firm. She made history as the first African American woman to develop properties in Jackson, MS, using the LIHTC model.

Throughout her career, Foley has overseen the construction and advisory of numerous apartment communities and single-family subdivisions across Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, and Connecticut—totaling over $500 million in development costs.

“I am committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable, and accessible housing for underserved communities, especially at such a pivotal time in Alexander Goshen’s growth,” said Foley. “I’m proud to help shape housing solutions that foster opportunity and dignity for residents.”

Alexander Goshen has developed nearly $400 million in commercial and residential real estate projects and currently has active projects in South Florida, Fort Myers, and St. Petersburg. 

Foley’s hire reflects the firm’s ongoing investment in executive leadership to elevate its operational capacity and community impact.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University in Toronto, Canada.