Vitus Group to Renovate Two N.J. Affordable Housing Communities

By Jessica Fiur, News Editor

Asbury Park, N.J.—Two affordable housing projects are getting renovated in Asbury Park, N.J. Vitus Group recently announced its plans for the renovation and rehabilitation of the Vita Gardens and Stephen Manor communities, which are located across the street from each other. This project will preserve 170 units of affordable housing.

“The importance of re-developing these properties is twofold: the first being, obviously, that we extend the affordability of the 170 units by another 30 years through upgrading all units with new kitchens and bathrooms as well as replacing roofs and windows and installing new playgrounds for the children. But the second part is that it allows the City of Asbury to redevelop this entire neighborhood, so not just the downtown of Asbury would be thriving,” Scott Langan, director, NY Vitus Group, tells MHN. “This expansion by the city coupled with our total re-development will drastically improve this neighborhood and allow for further growth by the city to reduce security issues and poverty concerns.”

The renovations for Vita Gardens and Stephen Manor will include replacing the roofs, doors and water heaters. Additionally, units will get upgrades. The kitchen cabinets, appliances and flooring will all be replaced and upgraded, and the bathrooms will also be renovated.

Other changes to the building include making the communities more energy efficient. This includes the installation of high-efficiency boilers, energy efficient windows and Energy Star-rated appliances.

Vitus Group plans to complete the renovations in these communities without temporary or permanent relocation of residents. They also hope to complete it with minimal disruption to the surrounding neighborhood.

Currently, the demand for affordable housing in the area is very high, and both Vita Gardens and Stephen Manor have five-year waiting lists and minimal turnover.