Former WNBA Player Devereaux Peters Breaks Ground on The Monreaux, Bringing Mixed-Income Housing and Entrepreneurial Space to Downtown South Bend
Community leaders and development partners gathered on March 13 to celebrate the groundbreaking of The Monreaux, a 57-unit mixed-use, mixed-income housing development led by Devereaux Peters, founder of Chateaux 14 Development. The project marks a significant milestone in expanding high-quality housing options in downtown South Bend.
Peters, a former professional athlete who played in the Women’s National Basketball Association and starred at the University of Notre Dame, has transitioned her leadership from the basketball court to community development. Through Chateaux 14 Development, she is focused on creating housing that strengthens neighborhoods while providing opportunities for residents.
“The Monreaux represents our commitment to building housing that people are proud to call home,” said Peters. “Our goal is to create an affordable community that rivals market-rate developments while also supporting residents with services and opportunities that help them thrive.”
Located at 100 W. Monroe Street, The Monreaux will feature a mix of affordable and market-rate apartments, as well as live-work units designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The development will also include first-floor commercial space intended to contribute to the vitality of downtown South Bend.
Beyond housing, the project emphasizes quality design and resident amenities. Planned features include a leasing office, fitness center, bicycle parking area, community meeting room, business center, and an outdoor community patio with gathering spaces, grills, and a pergola.
The development also integrates supportive programming and services through its CORES partner, including:
- Online classes in financial literacy, resume building, and nutrition
- Assistance applying for benefits such as Social Security, SNAP, and rental assistance
- Credit-building opportunities through rent payment reporting
- Community programming including book clubs and game nights
- Access to a mobile food pantry in partnership with Clay United Methodist Church
The project is designed to serve a broad range of income levels while fostering community engagement and stability for residents.
Local and national partners supporting the project include the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Cinnaire, Merchants Capital, financial institutions, and local housing organizations.
“Developments like The Monreaux demonstrate what is possible when mission-driven partners come together to expand access to quality housing,” said Keith Broadnax, SVP, Business Development, Cinnaire.
South Bend Mayor James Mueller joined partners in celebrating the project, highlighting its role in strengthening the downtown housing ecosystem and supporting continued economic growth.
Speakers at the groundbreaking included:
- Devereaux Peters, Founder, Chateaux 14 Development
- James Mueller, South Bend Mayor
- Rudy Yakym, Indiana Congressional Representative
- Ophelia Gooden Rogers, South Bend Councilwoman
- Keith Broadnax, SVP, Business Development, Cinnaire
- Alan Rakowski, Director of Real Estate Allocation, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority
- Emmett Donovan, Senior Vice President, Merchants Capital
Once completed, The Monreaux will offer residents a vibrant community environment with access to services, entrepreneurship opportunities, and quality housing in the heart of downtown.