The Times-Journal

Tuesday, February 9, 2010 | DeKalb County's Oldest Newspaper

Classifieds | Jobs | Homes | Autos

Apartments to offer room with a view

By Mark Harrison
The Times-Journal

Published June 30, 2009

Although it might soon appear as though a new apartment complex in north Fort Payne is ready for occupancy, those eager for a new view might not want to call the movers just yet.

Lowell Ray Barron’s Fyffe Construction, in cooperation with Vantage Development, is developing the complex atop a ridge that used to be the DeKalb County Chert Pit near the city’s North Y. He said contractors would finish about 90 percent of the framing work there within the next three weeks. He said that might give the illusion the complex is closer to being finished than it actually is.

Barron said the complex, yet to be named, is scheduled to be open for renters by March 2010. However, he said if the current pace of construction continues, apartments might be available there even sooner.

Fyffe Construction is developing the 56-unit breezeway-style apartment complex for the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama, a private, non-profit organization whose goals include elimination of poverty in specific areas.

The new apartment complex will be open to those who earn moderate incomes – 60 percent or less of the area average, and prefer apartment living.

“We did a detailed market analysis that showed there was significant demand for apartment rentals in the Fort Payne area,” Barron said. “There is a lot of texture to the housing landscape. There is a general assumption people want or need a home ownership situation, but not everybody wants or needs that.”

Barron said the apartment complex represents a $6 million investment. He estimates it will generate about $30,000 annually in property taxes and said it also benefits the local economy by generating short-term construction jobs.

He said the complex would have two bedroom-two bath units of 1,073 square feet and three bedroom units of 1,297 square feet that will rent for $335 and $395 per month, respectively, to qualified leasers. Barron said management would be local.

He said the complex would feature a community building, computer lab, municipal-level playground with lots of green space and some really spectacular views.

Barron said the complex is being constructed in a style meant to evoke “a ski lodge, Alpine sort of look.”

Those interested in renting an apartment should call (866) 302-2382.

Share | Save | Mail | Print

Photo Reprints
Purchase select photographs from local games and events. New from The Times-Journal and The Times-Journal.

Business Card Directory

Your Fort Payne and DeKalb County reference guide, featuring accounting, automotive, banks, insurance, restaurants and much more!

Subscription Services: Circulation | Home Delivery | Back Issues | Vacation Stops | Newspapers In Education

The Fort Payne Times-Journal | Publisher: J.D. Davidson

811 Greenhill Blvd.NW, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967 | Tel: 256-845-2550 | Email