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Floyd County repairs, rebuilds 14 homes in housing rehab program

Floyd County Completes Repairs and Rebuilds for 14 Homes Through Innovative Housing Rehab Program

FLOYD COUNTY, Va. – In a significant boost to affordable housing and community resilience, Floyd County officials have announced the successful completion of repairs and full rebuilds for 14 homes as part of their ongoing Housing Rehabilitation Program. This initiative, aimed at addressing substandard living conditions in rural areas, has transformed dilapidated structures into safe, modern residences, providing a lifeline to low-income families and elderly residents who might otherwise face displacement or unsafe living environments.

The program, which kicked off in early 2023 with funding from a combination of federal grants, state allocations, and local contributions, targets homes that fail to meet basic health and safety standards. According to county administrator Linda DeVito Kuchenbuch, the effort is more than just construction—it's about preserving the fabric of the community. "Floyd County is a place where families have deep roots, but many of our older homes have fallen into disrepair due to age, weather damage, and economic hardships," Kuchenbuch explained in a recent press conference. "This program ensures that our residents can stay in their homes without fear of structural failures or health hazards."

Over the past two years, the county's housing team, in partnership with local contractors and nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Virginia Housing Development Authority, has meticulously assessed and prioritized applications from homeowners. Eligibility is based on income levels—typically households earning less than 80% of the area's median income—and the severity of the home's issues. Common problems addressed include faulty roofing, inadequate plumbing, electrical hazards, and foundational weaknesses exacerbated by the region's hilly terrain and frequent storms.

Among the 14 homes rehabilitated, five underwent complete rebuilds from the ground up. These were cases where the original structures were deemed beyond repair, often due to decades of neglect or damage from natural events like flooding or high winds. For instance, one home in the rural outskirts of Willis belonged to the Thompson family, who had lived there for three generations. The original house, built in the 1950s, suffered from a collapsing roof and severe mold issues that made it uninhabitable. "We thought we'd have to move away, but this program gave us a fresh start right where our hearts are," said Mary Thompson, a 68-year-old retiree who now enjoys a energy-efficient, two-bedroom home with modern amenities like insulated windows and a wheelchair-accessible bathroom.

The rehabilitation process for each home begins with a thorough inspection by certified evaluators. Once approved, contractors bid on the projects, ensuring cost-effectiveness while adhering to strict building codes. Funding for the program totals approximately $1.2 million, sourced primarily from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, supplemented by Virginia's state housing trust fund and donations from local businesses. This financial model allows the county to offer the services at no cost to qualifying homeowners, who must agree to maintain the property for a set period to prevent resale profiteering.

Beyond structural fixes, the program incorporates sustainable and resilient features to future-proof the homes against climate challenges. Many of the rehabilitated properties now include solar-ready roofing, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and stormwater management solutions. "We're not just fixing homes; we're building for the long term," noted project coordinator Sarah Jenkins. "With climate change bringing more extreme weather to Southwest Virginia, these upgrades could save families thousands in utility bills and repair costs down the line."

The impact on the community extends far beyond the individual households. Local economists point out that stable housing reduces strain on social services, improves school attendance for children, and boosts overall economic productivity. In Floyd County, where the poverty rate hovers around 15%—higher than the state average—this program addresses a critical need. Data from the county's planning department shows that substandard housing contributes to health issues like respiratory problems from mold and injuries from unsafe structures, which in turn increase healthcare costs for the region.

One particularly inspiring story comes from the rebuild of a home in Check, where veteran Robert Hayes and his wife had been struggling with a leaky foundation that caused chronic flooding. Hayes, who served in the military for over 20 years, qualified for additional support through veteran-specific grants tied into the program. "After everything I've been through, coming home to a place that felt like it was falling apart was heartbreaking," Hayes shared. "Now, it's solid, warm, and ours. This program honors the sacrifices of folks like me by giving us dignity in our later years."

County officials have also emphasized the program's role in preserving Floyd's unique cultural heritage. Many of the homes are historic farmhouses or cabins that reflect the area's Appalachian roots. Rather than demolishing them outright, the rehab efforts often incorporate original elements, such as reclaimed wood beams or stone fireplaces, blending old charm with new functionality. This approach has garnered praise from preservationists and has even attracted volunteer labor from community groups eager to maintain the county's rural aesthetic.

Looking ahead, Floyd County plans to expand the program with an additional $800,000 in funding secured for 2026. This will allow for the rehabilitation of at least 10 more homes, with a focus on underserved areas like Indian Valley and Copper Hill. Applications are already being accepted, and outreach efforts include town hall meetings and partnerships with local churches to reach those who might not otherwise apply. "We're committed to making sure no one is left behind," Kuchenbuch affirmed. "Housing is a basic right, and in Floyd County, we're proving that with action."

Residents who have benefited from the program report not just physical improvements but emotional ones as well. For many, the fear of eviction or homelessness has been replaced by a sense of security and pride. "It's like a weight lifted off our shoulders," said another beneficiary, single mother Elena Ramirez, whose home in Floyd town received new siding, windows, and electrical wiring. "My kids can play safely now, and I don't worry about the roof caving in during a storm."

The success of this initiative has drawn attention from neighboring counties, with officials from Montgomery and Patrick counties expressing interest in replicating the model. State representatives have lauded Floyd's proactive approach, suggesting it could serve as a blueprint for rural housing rehabilitation across Virginia. In an era where affordable housing shortages plague much of the nation, Floyd County's program stands out as a beacon of community-driven solutions.

As the county celebrates this milestone, the 14 transformed homes symbolize more than bricks and mortar—they represent hope, stability, and the enduring spirit of Southwest Virginia. With continued support and funding, programs like this could reshape the landscape of rural America, one home at a time.

This achievement comes at a pivotal moment, as national conversations about housing equity gain momentum. In Floyd County, the Housing Rehabilitation Program is not just repairing roofs and walls; it's mending the very foundation of community life. For the families involved, it's a reminder that even in challenging times, local governments can make a profound difference.

The program's holistic approach also includes post-rehabilitation support, such as financial literacy workshops and maintenance training for homeowners. This ensures long-term success and prevents future deterioration. Volunteers from local high schools have even participated in minor tasks, fostering a sense of civic engagement among the youth.

Critics might argue that such programs strain local budgets, but proponents counter that the return on investment is immense. Reduced emergency service calls, lower healthcare expenditures, and increased property values all contribute to a healthier economy. In fact, preliminary studies by the University of Virginia's Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service indicate that for every dollar invested in housing rehab, communities see up to $3 in economic benefits.

As Floyd County moves forward, the stories of these 14 homes will undoubtedly inspire more action. From the Thompsons' generational homestead to Hayes' veteran sanctuary, each project underscores the human element at the heart of the program. In a world of rapid change, initiatives like this remind us of the power of targeted, compassionate intervention to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Read the Full WDBJ Article at:
[ https://www.wdbj7.com/2025/07/22/floyd-county-repairs-rebuilds-14-homes-housing-rehab-program/ ]