New 114-unit apartment proposed for Arden; 35% of units for workforce housing

New 114-unit apartment proposed for Arden; 35% of units for ‘workforce housing’

A new housing complex has been proposed for Arden, with over a third of the units to be designated for “workforce housing.” The development will consist entirely of studios and one-bedroom apartments.

The proposed development, called “Altitude,” will be located off Clayton Road in Arden, near the Biltmore Church Arden Campus. Cox Universal Group, a Tennessee-based real estate development corporation, has submitted plans for a 114-unit apartment building with amenities such as a pool, dog park, and community building.

The developer plans to offer 35% of the units as “workforce housing,” intended for individuals earning 80%-120% of the area median income. The floor plans for the apartments range from 440-570 square-feet, and all units will be housed in a central four-story building.

Developer’s Background and Past Projects

Cox Universal Group, based in Johnson City, has experience constructing mixed-use residential, commercial, and industrial facilities in the southern region. One of their previous projects includes The Villas at Avery Creek, another apartment complex in Arden, where one-bedroom units start at $1,069 per month.

It’s worth noting that the 7.5-acre property for the new apartment complex is owned by Biltmore Baptist Church, which has multiple locations across Western North Carolina and substantial land holdings in Buncombe County.

Construction and Development Details

If approved, construction is scheduled to commence in late 2024 or early 2025, with an estimated development timeline of 12-18 months. The company also plans to preserve over 3 acres of open space on the property as part of the development.

The project is slated to undergo review by the Buncombe County Board of Adjustment on July 10, where concerns and feedback from members of the community will be considered before any decision is made regarding the development.

Conclusion

The proposed housing complex “Altitude” in Arden aims to provide a mix of studios and one-bedroom apartments, with a focus on offering affordable “workforce housing” to individuals within a specific income bracket. With construction anticipated to begin in late 2024 or early 2025, the development plans to address the housing needs of diverse populations in the Asheville metropolitan area.