The Vision
Through a resident-led process, a group of partners are working together to revitalize Charlottesville’s 376 units of Public Housing. In addition to replacing these existing units with safe, comfortable and modern homes, the group also intends to generate significant more affordable housing on the Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority’s (CRHA) 40 acres of land within the city, helping to address the affordable housing crisis.
The Affordable Housing Opportunity Fund (AHOF) was established by Dave Matthews Band and Red Light Management to help raise the funds to make this work possible. Following DMB and Red Light Management's catalyzing gift of $5 Million to the fund, the group has now raised a total of $28M towards a goal of $30M. This private philanthropy helps leverage federal, state and local funding to help build what will ultimately be approximately $200M worth of new, affordable housing.
Construction Updates and Photos
South First Street - Phases One and Two
Transforming South First Street
The South First Street redevelopment is bringing 175 new affordable homes to Charlottesville across two phases—the first new public housing in the city since 1976.
Phase 1 delivered 62 energy-efficient homes and a community center in 2023.
Phase 2 is underway, adding 113 more homes, a community center, park, playground, and CRHA offices, with resident-led planning guiding every step. Completion is expected in 2026.
Together, these phases represent a historic reinvestment in public housing, designed hand-in-hand with residents to create a safe, sustainable, and thriving community.
Crescent Halls
The complete renovation of Crescent Halls’ 105 apartments was finished in April 2024, marking a new era for residents who had long endured poor conditions. The building now features modern HVAC systems, rooftop solar panels, updated elevators, new plumbing, redesigned layouts, and enhanced safety features. Residents have returned to a revitalized community that is safer, more comfortable, and built to last.
Sixth Street
The Sixth Street community is undergoing a resident-led transformation. Phase 1 is now underway, bringing a four-story building with a community health clinic and play space. Completion is expected in early 2027, delivering 47 new affordable homes and vibrant community spaces, with planning already in motion for Phase 2.
"Housing is more than shelter. Research shows that stable, affordable housing is a lifeline to educational success, health and well-being, and economic security."
-MacArthur Foundation President Julia Stasch
