Newport News, VA Dakota Partners celebrated the official grand opening of Huntington Village in Newport News, its first multi-family community in Virginia. The event featured a panel of distinguished speakers including, Newport News Mayor McKinley Price; Virginia Housing CEO, Susan Dewey; Virginia DHCD senior deputy director of Community Development and Housing, Sandra Powell; Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority executive director, Karen Wilds; and two community residents, Jamel Decosta and Frances Lewis.
“This new and affordable housing is a place where individuals and families not just live but thrive. A site where dreams are made and then realized and where families can come together to renew and recharge…these 96 multi-unit apartments are a welcome and much needed addition to our city,” said Mayor Price. “Together, we are creating a place where individuals and families learn, grow, and flourish and I look forward to the stories of friendship, family, collaboration, growth opportunity and change that will come out of Huntington Village Apartments.”
Over the past several years, Newport News has invested heavily to improve infrastructure in this area. The completion of Huntington Village supports this important revitalization and offers much needed affordable housing for the growing population. Interest from the community has been high, evidenced by the fact that the entire development is fully leased.
Huntington Village resident, Frances Lewis, spoke at the event. She said, “I moved in [to Huntington Village] in December and I couldn’t wait. It’s a beautiful location. Everything you need is accessible. The apartments are modern and updated. I know that it’s not safe anywhere, but I feel safe here. It’s up to us as neighbors and the community to work together to keep it safe and clean. I love it here. I just love it.”
Comprised of four 3-story garden-style buildings, Huntington Village features 96 open-concept apartments that are ideally suited for families. It was designed and constructed to be Earthcraft gold certified, which addresses a wide range of sustainability considerations, including environmental performance, indoor air quality, building durability, comfort and affordability. Located steps from public transportation, residents have easy access to area shopping, entertainment and amenities. The development also features a community building with shared spaces including a gathering area, fitness center, on-site laundry facilities and a playground.