NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) – A proposed new apartment complex in Newport News hit a roadblock during Tuesday night’s city council meeting.
While city council voted against the project in a 4 to 3 vote, Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones said he plans to sit down with planners to find a way forward. Currently, the land on the north end of the peninsula sits vacant.
On Tuesday, developers went in front of the council in order to change the zoning, which would allow for the properties to become an apartment community. Within the new community, there would be a maximum of 120 dwelling units.
The overall property is being supported by NBA legend and Newport News native Allen Iverson. His mom, Ann Iverson, was in attendance at last night’s council meeting.
“Let’s continue to make Newport News great and a better place to live,” Ann said. “Let’s show the people in our town they matter.”
The project would also include traffic improvements to reduce any impacts the development could have on surrounding streets. During the meeting, the developer mentioned concerns for traffic, but said they are willing to try for a stop light.
However, one resident says this complex would flood his backyard.
“The apartment complex usually build off the ground, build up a little bit and they slant it inward for the retention ponds, but the outer perimeter of that, on the property is going to be slanted and our backyard is right behind the fence,” the resident said.
The developer said the property would be affordable and market rate housing, hopefully including stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl floor, a swimming pool and a fitness center.
“This is affordable housing, market rate housing, we’re gonna have stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl floor, we’re going to have a swimming pool, fitness center, this is going to be a nice addition to the community,” said Alvin Keels Jr., Managing Member of Fort Eustis Investment Partners.
Councilman John Eley III voted in support of the measure, he says he hates to see this project not get moved forward.
“For this to be the first and I’m going to say it – Black developer, builder, lawyer to build luxury apartments in my city during black history month I’m excited about it. Let’s make this project happen. We always said we want developing in Newport News, but do we really want to development in Newport News?” Councilman Eley III questioned.
The mayor stated after the meeting that he believes the plan has more work that needs to be done before moving forward.
“This is, this is not a no, this is not a right now,” Jones said. “And so, I look forward to sitting down with you, and we can find a way forward. And that includes city staff sitting down and making sure that the process is the same for everyone. And so, we’re going to get some things done. But thank you.”
Councilman Curtis Bethany III said he voted no because the current council has not reviewed the comprehensive land plan. He then asked, with 50-52% of people renting in Newport News, do they want to be known as the community that rents more than they own.
Developers said they will likely continue to work on this project until it is approved.
Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.