South First Street - Phase One
Originally built in 1981 with 58 units, South First Street is being completely transformed. On this 12-acre property, 62 brand-new homes are being constructed to provide existing residents with modern housing and make way for full redevelopment of the community.
Construction began in March 2021
The first two buildings were completed in January 2023, with families moving in by year’s end
A third building was completed in May 2023, bringing the total to 62 new affordable homes plus a community center
These are the first new public housing units built in Charlottesville since 1976
All new buildings feature rooftop solar panels and are built to high energy-efficiency standards
South First Street - Phase Two
The remaining area of South First Street is being redeveloped in a second phase, designed in partnership with residents themselves. A group of ~20 resident ambassadors worked weekly with architects (Contour Construction, Urban Core, and Greenwood Homes) to create a master site plan, ensuring the new neighborhood reflects the community’s vision.
The Phase 2 plan includes:
113 new homes (apartments and townhomes)
A community center, park, playground and CRHA offices
Outdoor amenities designed with direct resident input
Key milestones:
Low Income Housing Tax Credits awarded in June 2020
Demolition of the 58 original homes began June 24, 2025, and was completed in August 2025
Early occupancy expected by Fall 2026, with full completion targeted for Winter 2026
PHAR Board President Joy Johnson (left) and PHAR Executive Director Shelby Marie Edwards (right) at the South First Street groundbreaking in March 2021.