Murphy Celebrates Grand Opening of Valley River Apartments

Photo from WKRK Facebook

The Town of Murphy marked a significant achievement with the grand opening of Valley River Apartments, a 56-unit affordable housing complex designed for working families. The project, a result of years of collaboration among local, state, and federal partners, transformed an empty field into a vibrant community.

The ceremony, led by Joy Strassel of Western North Carolina Housing, highlighted the pivotal roles of Mayor Tim Radford, former Mayor Rick Ramsey, Town Manager Chad Simons, and the Town Council. Funding and support came from the Appalachian Regional Commission, North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, North Carolina Department of Commerce, Dogwood Health Trust, and private investors like Corporation for Affordable Housing Investments of the Southeast and Churchill Stateside Group. Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and Community Development Block Grant funding covered nearly half the costs and supported infrastructure like roads and utilities.

Mayor Radford emphasized the development’s role in supporting local businesses and fostering sustainable growth, while Ramsey recalled the project’s early vision. Scott Farmer of the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency praised the teamwork that kept the project on track despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Representatives from the Department of Commerce and Mills Construction highlighted the community impact and quality craftsmanship, noting the new pump station benefiting both the apartments and a nearby retail plaza.

A resident, Kaylee, wife of a local police officer, shared her family’s relief at securing a safe home as they await their first child. The event concluded with a ribbon cutting, apartment tours, and a community lunch at the Murphy Fire Department. Valley River Apartments stands as a cornerstone of Murphy’s commitment to workforce development and community sustainability, offering rent-restricted homes for essential workers.