Completed First Phase of Walter I.M Hodge Pavilion Renovations a 'Physical Manifestation' Of Goal To Transform Public Housing in Territory, VIHA Says

Having completed renovations on the first 82 units of the Walter IM Hodge Pavilion, beaming officials took the stage on Thursday at the ribbon cutting ceremony for phase one of the project.

“The sound of construction is music to my ears,” said Robert Graham, executive director of the V.I. Housing Authority. This first work being done on VIHA’s ambitious plan to completely rehabilitate the territory’s public housing stock is the “physical manifestation” of that goal, Mr. Graham told the audience. “Our plan has the potential to provide a clear path and a helping hand for every household living in Hodge,” he declared, noting that the investors had joined with VIHA in supporting the “Right Path” resident services plan with funds from their equity. “Not HUD funds, not local funds, investor equity, with substantial annual funding.”

He urged the heads of households for the first 82 families included in the first phase to volunteer for the resident council and work to refine programs that would serve all 248 households that are ultimately expected to be accommodated by August 2024. Council elections will be held in January of next year, Mr. Graham said. “We want to have a line of folks to volunteer.”

James Benton, president of J Benton Construction, LLC, described the improvements made to the apartments. Aside from design upgrades to cabinets, countertops and appliances, the unites have been fitted with new plumbing and electrical systems. Energy efficient lighting and fans have been installed, and public spaces will contain solar panels and emergency generators. Outdoor light poles will be solar powered, Mr. Benton noted. New facilities for residents include a senior center, playground for toddlers, and community gardening areas. Basketball courts and the community center will be revamped as well.