By Kathy Chouteau
EAH Housing has launched its two-phase affordable housing project at Nevin Plaza, 2400 Nevin Ave. in Richmond. The nonprofit housing development and management organization said the former public housing property will cater to seniors and people with disabilities.
The project’s Phase 1, expected to be completed in late 2024, will center on rehabilitating the existing seven-story building to include 138 units, said EAH Housing, adding that HKIT Architects will coordinate the designs and interiors. Funding for the project has originated from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Section 8 Project-Based Voucher (PBV) Program—along with $3.5 million from the City of Richmond.
Laura Hall, president and CEO of EAH Housing, said that “With the Phase I renovation of Nevin Plaza, we are not simply upgrading the building’s physical infrastructure and interior design—we are creating a community where everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background, can lead safe, healthy and prosperous lives.”
EAH Housing said it will “address significant structural and building envelope concerns” during the project’s initial phase, including interior changes such as new windows, refurbished mechanical and plumbing systems and the upgrading of all units with new finishes, kitchens and bathrooms.
Community amenities, such as a community room, outdoor courtyard—plus necessities like a laundry room and property management office—will also be incorporated by the team. A full-time resource coordinator will additionally be on hand for residents who need guidance and counseling.
Several pieces of art will also be installed in the exterior of the building, per EAH Housing, with SLATE Art Consulting developing the public art installations.
On the heels of Phase 1’s completion, the project’s second phase will involve constructing new building housing units for low income seniors.
Calling the City of Richmond “a leader in our region in providing affordable housing,” Richmond City Manager Shasa Curl said that this residential development is “directly addressing the affordable housing deficit in our region and state by preserving and upgrading affordable housing, which will provide homes and services specifically tailored for seniors and persons with disabilities.”
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