Local community leaders to celebrate grand opening of rehabilitated apartment complex

Friday, June 16, 2023 at 11:25 AM

Before	After

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – Local, state, and federal officials joined development partners, investment partners, and residents to celebrate the grand opening of Capstone at Barton Chapel Apartments, formerly known as Trinity Manor Apartments. The 100-unit complex was originally constructed in 1975 and was in dire need of rehabilitation both on the interior and exterior. The complex underwent a total renovation beginning in January of 2022 that included a full interior and exterior renovation. The modernization of the complex not only dramatically improved the overall living condition for the residents, but also added additional amenities that include a new playground, fitness center, computer lab and community room. The redevelopment was made possible by the collective partnership of so many that included The City of Augusta, The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), and Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Each partner was instrumental in helping to revive a multifamily complex that 100 Augusta families call home. This JV ownership of the Banyan Foundation and Rural Housing Developers is one that brings a lot of past development experience. This collaborative partnership is what was needed to make this such a successful development. The Banyan Foundation CEO, Rob Coats stated, “The Banyan Foundation, along with our development partner, Rural Housing Developers – Georgia, are proud to be a part of this transformational project. We are fortunate to have great partners in Georgia DCA, HUD, and the City of Augusta. This partnership began under the leadership of former Augusta Mayor, Hardie Davis and has been completed under Mayor Johnson’s leadership. Without all of these parties working together, this project would not have been able to be completed.” Local organizations, financial institutions and government leaders were also instrumental in the redevelopment of the complex. Partners in the project include Studio 8 Design, Empire Construction, Stifel, Cadence Bank, Raymond James, Sugar Creek Capital, Bellwether Enterprises, Troy Bank & Trust, Gateway Management Company, Tidwell Group, Torch Networks, OSA and Comcast. Not only did the residents benefit from all new appliances, cabinets, bathrooms, windows, and flooring but all residents will be provided with internet and cable for their unit. Mr. Coats added, “COVID-19 definitely showed us all what an impact the lack of technology can have on school age children. In working with HUD, we were able to receive approval to install Wi-Fi access into each unit so that every family has access to the internet. This access is invaluable for children of learning age. To say we are proud of this project is an understatement.” As part of the grand opening, Smoke Show Southern BBQ provided meals to all residents and guests and all residents received “sparkle buckets” that can be utilized for maintaining the cleanliness of their units.