The Rivers Apartments Celebrate a Complete Renovation

Upon arriving at the newly renovated Rivers Apartments in Chesapeake, Virginia, one would think that

the monthly rent on these units must be very expensive. The location is right off of the interstate in

close proximity to the major employment sources, the grounds are manicured, the apartments all look

new, the windows and doors are all energy efficient, the play area for the kids is clean and safely

secured in the middle of the complex and the list goes on and on of the impressive amenities the Rivers

Apartments have to offer its residences.

However, this apartment complex is one of the oldest USDA Rural Development, Multi‐Family Housing

properties in the Virginia portfolio. The Rivers was originally constructed in 1978‐1979 era and currently

provides 240 units of multi‐family housing at more than 35% below market value for the area. Mr. Steve

Lawson, CEO of Lawson Development Associates, probably one of the most modest men you will ever

meet, says it best, “We are about providing a decent, affordable and safe place for ALL residence of this

area to live.”

Beauty in this case is also not just skin deep. The apartments are some of the most energy efficient

structures in the area. Utilizing EarthCraft Certification that includes 16‐SEER high‐efficiency heat

pumps, insulated doors/windows, Energy Star appliances and high insulation R‐Factors in the walls and

ceilings, the monthly energy costs for the low income residence will be very affordable.

Through a creative partnership with USDA Rural Development, Virginia Housing and Development

Authority (VHDA), EarthCraft of Virginia, Low Income Housing Tax Credits and over 228 local tradesmen

and women who worked on the $6.8 million dollar renovation, Mr. Lawson and his staff have really

accomplished their dream of affordable housing for everyone.

Click here for photos.