James City County has hired consultants to study the viability of a 47-unit affordable housing development dubbed “The Moores,” evaluating both market demand and Federal Home Loan Bank grant eligibility for the Community Land Trust project, says Williamsburg Independent editor George Arbogust. The county selected RKG Associates to conduct the assessment, with findings expected in May.
The project uses a Community Land Trust model, where residents own homes through long-term leases while a nonprofit trust holds the land. This structure aims to maintain long-term affordability by limiting resale prices while allowing homeowners to build equity. Income eligibility caps at 80% of Area Median Income—approximately $109,985.
The initiative aligns with the Board of Supervisors’ 2026 Strategic Plan prioritizing affordable housing for seniors, people with special needs, and the local workforce. The proposed development would be situated on Clark Lane, with the Moses Lane area also identified for CLT development.
Beyond The Moores, the county pursues affordable housing through development agreements. The Fort Magruder hotel conversion on Pocahontas Trail, for instance, commits 40% of units to workforce housing for households earning 60-120% of AMI.
County officials say the market study will provide crucial data as James City expands affordable housing options.
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