Senior Living Facility in James City to Get Supervisors' Review
All 50 units meant for seniors earning less than 60% of the Area Median Income
Earlier this month, the James City County Planning Commission voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend approval of a 50-unit senior independent living facility at 6015 Richmond Road. The project, designated as Forest Heights, aims to address a critical local need by dedicating 100% of its units to affordable housing for seniors earning between 30% and 60% of the Area Median Income. The proposal now moves to the Board of Supervisors for a final public hearing tentatively scheduled for February 2026.
This request serves as a re-approval of a permit originally granted in 2019. The project faced significant setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused construction material costs to surge and complicated financing. Because construction did not begin within the required 36-month window, the original permit expired, necessitating this new application. Despite these delays, staff noted that the project remains consistent with the county’s Comprehensive Plan.
The senior facility is part of a broader master plan that includes an adjacent 46-unit townhome community, which is also 100% affordable and currently under construction. The two developments will share infrastructure, including stormwater management systems and a homeowners association. Planned amenities include a playground, multi-use paths, and scheduled improvements to nearby transit stops.
Two regional organizations moving the development forward
Bay Aging is a nonprofit regional agency established in 1978 to help residents live independently. They specialize in developing and managing affordable senior housing, providing essential services like Meals on Wheels, and operating the Bay Transit public transportation system.
In the Forest Heights project, Bay Aging serves as the developer and manager, utilizing their expertise to provide 50 affordable units for seniors. Their integrated approach combines housing with health services—such as home care and specialized dementia support—leveraging partnerships with the Williamsburg Health Foundation to address the region’s high demand for low-income senior living.
The Williamsburg Health Foundation (WHF) is a private grant-making organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Greater Williamsburg residents. Established in 1996, the Foundation invests in systems that address physical, mental, and social health needs.
In 2025, WHF awarded nearly $6.9 million in grants, prioritizing healthy aging, behavioral health, and access to medical care. Its partnership with Bay Aging for the Forest Heights project is a key example of its “aging in place” strategy, providing the strategic support and stability necessary to secure affordable housing for low-income seniors despite challenging economic cycles.
The writer use AI tools and these source:
Agenda packet - James City County Planning Commission - Regular Meeting, January 7, 2026
Video - James City County Planning Commission - Regular Meeting, January 7, 2026
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