Affordable housing complex coming to Athens

ATHENS, Texas ( KETK ) — An old Athens motel will be converted into a new affordable housing complex thanks to a construction company in Dallas that partnered with the City of Athens.

Wallace Ventures’ project began months ago at the old Quality Inn motel off Highway 31 that was vacant for more than 10 years.

It will soon become “Athens Reserve” that will include 122 units turned into studio apartments.

“This property that will be converted into studio apartments just under 300 square feet. We also have two acres on the frontage of Highway 31 that we plan to use for complimentary commercial uses,” President of Wallace Ventures Jordan Wallace said.

At the complex, each room will be rented out for $750 dollars with new appliances that include a kitchenette and new plumbing.

“Right now, we’re retrofitting each one of these apartment units, including cabinets, stainless steel appliances, new countertops and also a shower and bathtub in each of these units,” Wallace said.

The motel will not go to waste, the swimming pool will get a makeover and a dog park will be added.

“I think adding a dog park is pretty interesting. It adds a lot to the character of buildings these days where animals are welcomed in with their own home as well, so I kind of like that opportunity to bring your own pet,” Wallace said.

Athens City Manager Elizabeth Borstad said the property’s transformation will benefit many.

“The Athens Reserve project is a significant transformation for this property, turning an abandoned hotel into efficient and affordable housing. This initiative provides a practical housing solution while enhancing the local area,” Borstad said.

Applications for the first 40 rooms will be available in August and the entire project will be finished by the beginning of the new year.

“We wanted to come in with the solution that allows people to live their lives, travel if they desire, to go out to restaurants if they want with an apartment complex that’s affordable,” Wallace said.

Even though it is affordable, Wallace assures quality will still ring throughout the complex.

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