Lawson, a Virginia-based real estate development, construction, and management firm, celebrated the groundbreaking of phase III of Miller’s Rest Apartments, a new 160-unit affordable housing development that will further expand housing opportunities for individuals and families in Lynchburg earning at or below 80% AMI.

Upon completion, Miller’s Rest Apartments will include 355 affordable apartment homes across three phases, making it one of the region’s most significant affordable housing communities. The new phase builds upon the success of phase I, which delivered 80 affordable apartment homes, and phase II, which added 115 affordable apartment homes.

“This phase alone represents a total investment of $47 million into the local economy, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and generating significant economic activity throughout the region,” said Lawson VP and Director of Development, Austin Pittman. “But the impact we’re most proud of is the addition of 160 new affordable apartment homes for hard-working Lynchburg families.”

Phase III will feature 160 apartment homes designed to serve households earning between 20% and 80% of the area’s median income. The development will include one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, with accessibility features incorporated throughout the community, including ADA-compliant and Universal Design units.

Residents will enjoy access to the community’s existing amenities, including a fitness center, dog park, playground, outdoor gathering spaces, clubhouse, and bicycle storage. The expansion will also enhance the property’s wellness offerings through the addition of a new yoga studio connected to the existing fitness center.

The development is being financed through the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program and will be constructed to Energy Star and EarthCraft Gold standards, promoting long-term sustainability and reduced utility costs for residents.