ARLINGTON, Va. (January 26, 2006) – The Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH) is taking unprecedented steps to safeguard affordable housing in Arlington County by making a commitment to triple the number of apartments it owns over the next five years-holding an inventory of 1,165 apartments. Instead of purchasing new buildings, APAH will redevelop its own properties, offering a mixture of both affordable and market rate apartments to people unable to afford high rents. Resident services programs will also be expanded so residents can improve their skills, get better jobs and become more self-sufficient.
The 5-Year Strategic Plan, adopted by APAH's Board of Directors, calls for adding 755 units to the 410 units APAH holds in its inventory. "Our goals over the next five years are ambitious," says Douglas Peterson, APAH's executive director. &rsquot;But we are confident we can achieve them as we look to redevelop our properties. We will continue spending time identifying potential deals, but our focus will be to do more with what we have.&rdquot;
Converting Rosslyn Ridge from a 22-apartment building into a 228-unit high rise is APAH's most dramatic attempt at stretching its resources and giving a boost to the affordable housing supply. Plans are also underway to expand other apartment buildings, construct townhouses adjacent to APAH's properties and convert smaller apartments into two- and three-bedroom units.
APAH faces new challenges as it moves into construction, add Jack Cornman, principal of Consultants on Purpose, who facilitated the strategic planning process. "Watching a building go up is different and more difficult than rehabilitating existing buildings. Projects will be more complex and need for tenant services will increase," says Cornman. The strategic plan calls for hiring additional staff to oversee construction work and manage assets and a director of development to help with fundraising.
Organizations go through changes as they mature, Cornman notes, setting in place formal systems to monitor projects, manage staff and keep track of administrative functions. APAH is stepping up its operation to handle its growth.
About APAH
The Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing is a private, nonprofit organization founded in 1989 whose mission is to provide safe, affordable housing to residents throughout the County. APAH purchases and renovates apartment buildings and rents the units to low- to middle-income individuals and families. All APAH communities are Equal Housing Opportunity communities.
For more information on the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, visit us online at www.apah.org. |
