A vibrant new community is on the horizon for Harrisonburg, as city leaders discuss the exciting developments at Bluestone and the upcoming Commerce Village 2 project. During a recent meeting of the City/HRHA Liaison Committee, officials highlighted the importance of creating not just housing, but a thriving neighborhood that fosters community engagement.

The conversation kicked off with a focus on the need for affordable housing, emphasizing that the new developments should cater to the local population, including potential homeowners. One committee member passionately stated, “I want to see a vibrant part of the city... not just a bunch of town homes or apartments.” The goal is to create a destination where residents feel a sense of belonging and community.

Commerce Village 2, a 16-unit permanent supportive housing project, is making significant progress. Set to open by the end of November or early December, the project will prioritize veterans and individuals facing chronic homelessness. The property manager shared that they are currently finalizing the interiors and preparing for occupancy certification, which is crucial for the leasing process. “We anticipate having the wait list open probably sometime in September,” they noted, indicating a proactive approach to filling these vital housing units.

However, the committee also addressed the complexities of the housing waiting list, which currently includes around 4,000 individuals. There was a discussion about the fairness of opening applications for new projects when many have been waiting for years. Officials acknowledged the frustration but explained that new opportunities must be made available to those in need, particularly for high-priority cases.

As the meeting wrapped up, the excitement for the future of Harrisonburg’s housing landscape was palpable. With projects like Bluestone and Commerce Village 2 on the way, city leaders are optimistic about addressing the pressing need for affordable housing while fostering a sense of community among residents. The developments are not just about building homes; they are about creating a place where people want to live and thrive together.