BRISTOL, Tenn. – For Johnson City developer Ernest Campbell, the housing community he’s building on Brown Avenue represents a chance to produce affordable, modern homes in Bristol.
For Milligan College, adding its nonprofit status to Campbell’s project – so the work could receive federal financing – represents a chance to carry out its Christian goal of helping others.
But for the low- to moderate-income elderly residents who will soon move into the community’s 20 units, the Ridge View Apartments represent something else: a chance to live in high-quality properties they never expected to be within reach.
“It’s a way to assist people who would have difficulty paying the market-rate rent for homes like these,” Milligan College President Donald Jeanes said. “It also fits our mission to provide compassion and help. It’s something that can enrich the whole area.”
While not quite finished, the housing complex already is a striking addition to the neighborhood, behind the Kmart store on Kmart Drive.
The one-bedroom units all provide full accessibility for the handicapped, top-line appliances, security networks and energy-friendly heating systems – with a community room and social lounge also available. One unit will be specifically designed for a resident with a visual or hearing impairment.
“There’s a tremendous need in most areas for this kind of housing, and particularly in Bristol,” Campbell said. “It’s going to allow elderly residents to be in a community where it’s easy for everyone to look out for each other, but still have independent living arrangements.”
Campbell said he expects work to finish Nov. 15, with residents moving in by Thanksgiving weekend.
Because of Milligan College’s involvement, the federal government classifies the Ridge View Apartments as a nonprofit venture, making it eligible for funding by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. And, because of that, rents in the 20 units will be strictly controlled, with utilities provided free.
“This certainly isn’t about the college doing something to make money,” Jeanes said. “It is something we can do to make a difference.”
The housing community will be managed by M&M Properties, based in Johnson City.
rbrown@bristolnews.com | (276) 645-2512
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