RFP issued for affordable housing developer
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority has issued a request for proposals for a developer to plan, design, construct, and operate affordable multifamily housing on a site it owns in Bailey’s Crossroads.
The 2.93-acre property is located at 5827 Columbia Pike between Radley Acura and the nearly completed Alta Nova apartments. FCRHA wants to use the site for a building with approximately 160 rental units for low to moderate-income households.
The RFP is open until March 28. Interested developers are invited to participate in an optional virtual pre-proposal conference on Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. Register here.
The project would replace the Crossroads Interim Park. That park was meant to be a temporary placeholder until the property could be developed.
Related story: Developer sought for affordable housing in Bailey’s Crossroads
The RFP says the project should be “integrated into the surrounding neighborhood, complementing its existing character while enhancing community connectivity.” Priority will be given to proposals that include sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle connections, and public spaces.
The FCRHA says the developer should incorporate priorities outlined by community members at a meeting in October. Those priorities include recreational and shared community spaces, health and wellness facilities, and/or a childcare facility.
In selecting a developer, the county will consider the company’s expertise in developing and managing affordable housing, the degree of affordability of the units, high-quality design combined with cost-effective construction techniques, sustainability, and a clear financing strategy, among other factors.
4 responses to “RFP issued for affordable housing developer”
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A trailer park would fit in nicely for the people who inhabit that area.
I thought the county was trying to clean up Bailey’s Crossroads?
Yes, a developer is putting up signs.
Again, for this project and all of the wants from the town hall meeting – it boils down to two key facts. (1) What is the amount of taxpayer funding the Board of Supervisors is willing to pay /finance to meet them. (2) How much can the developer &/or operator charge in rent to cover costs, expenses and have a profit without causing the the building to be neglected or rundown over time (avoiding neglect and keeping the building up should be a priority in any deal). Folks should also plan for regular rent increases, and not necessarily limited ones given inflation. Presume the government is retaining ownership of the land, then the above is more true.
I don’t think we as taxpayers can afford this project as the economics don’t appear to work with the new emphasis on low income. Again, 60 percent of the area median income in Fairfax county means making just slightly under $65k or $85k (can’t remember exactly) – so going to low income is taking that fiscal threshold down. Finally, how small are the 160 units going to be given the limited amount of space for housing and “open space,” plus how many individuals will be allowed in each unit? If wishes were horses, then for this project clearly the dreamers are going to ride us taxpayers. LOL!