News
Just being neighborly
Renovation reaches community
Debbie Alexander is excited to have new neighbors.
The principal of Tutt Middle School said the new owners of Willow Ridge Townhomes are transforming it from an aging rental complex once known for criminal activity into a property the neighborhood can be proud of.
The brick wall built years ago to shield the school from the neighborhood has been knocked down, at least metaphorically, by Charleston, S.C.-based Chartwell Management, which acquired the property in June.
"At least on a monthly basis, sometimes on a weekly basis, (the property manager) sends someone over here with paper or pencils or treat bags," Dr. Alexander said. "I feel like if I needed something, all I have to do is pick up the phone and ask."
Willow Ridge property manager Marty Brown acknowledged the major face-lift, which is about half-finished, is being well-received by neighbors.
"It's a big change," said Ms. Brown, who worked at Willow Ridge four years ago.
The 120-townhome community on Joy Road was built in 1968. Ms. Brown said the two-bedroom, 11/2-bath units all "had a '70s feel," and they are receiving modern day updates, such as new carpeting and remodeled kitchens and bathrooms.
Landscaping was the biggest project at the community, and Willow Ridge has replaced its vast concrete with grass and trees. The parking lot was also repaved, and new signs were added to the complex.
"We have an allocated improvement budget of $1.3 million," Chartwell co-owner Todd Abedon said. The funds are being spent as units become vacant, he said.
"Willow Ridge is in the best shape it's ever been, and it's a wonderful part of the community now. It's an all new Willow Ridge," he said. The growing property management company has eight properties in Georgia and the Carolinas, and was started in 2000 as a spinoff from Churchill Forge Properties, based in Boston.
Mr. Abedon and partner Chris Wyett purchased three other Augusta properties, the Springhouse, River Creek and Rocky Creek apartment complexes, in 2006.
The owners have done similar updates in these communities, in addition to donating to local charities and sponsoring Little League teams.
"We believe that our community is a part of a larger community, and it's important for us to support the community that we're in," Mr. Abedon said. "We believe in Augusta and love the town."
The company's other Augusta properties will also partner with schools in their district through the "Chartwell Goes to School" initiative, he said. Ms. Brown also makes an effort to develop relationships with other neighbors, such as John and Sucha Rife, who are the owners of the corner gas station.
"He let us put our sign out in front of his gas station. We talk all the time," she said.
Dr. Alexander says her school looks forward to continuing the partnership with Willow Ridge in the future.
"She seems very committed to being a good neighbor, and we want to be the same for them," Dr. Alexander said.