City leaders and Van Metre Homes came together today, March 11, 2024, to celebrate the groundbreaking of Ashberry, a new residential community set to redefine the landscape of Manassas.
With 247 units planned for Historic Downtown Manassas, Ashberry will offer residents a unique opportunity to embrace a vibrant, transit-oriented lifestyle in the heart of the city. The homes will be built on top of more than 60 parcels that contain older, single-family homes that will be demolished as part of the project.
The location of Ashberry, within walking distance of the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) station, reflects the city’s commitment to encouraging dense, car-free commuting, a press release states. This placement aims to enhance accessibility and promote sustainable living practices among future residents.
As demand for residential and commercial real estate continues to surge in Manassas, Ashberry’s arrival is timely. The 17.5-acre site, formely known as Holmes Heights, across from Georgetown South, will offer a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, all meticulously crafted to complement the city’s architectural style.
Moreover, the development’s expansion will contribute to the enhancement of public amenities, with a 1.7-acre addition to Baldwin Park and the creation of new trails along Grant Avenue, Bartow Street, and Main Street. These enhancements will further enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors alike, promoting outdoor recreation and community engagement.
Meanwhile, work to rebuild Grant Avenue is underway. Storm pipes and structures were installed around the intersections of Byrd Drive and Taney Road (North). Street improvements also continued between Byrd Drive and Taney Road (South) and between Douglas Street and the city’s Public Safety Facility including curb and gutter, sidewalk, grading, and underground conduits for street lights and crossing signals.
When complete, the streetscape project will reduce Grant Avenue from four to two lanes.
Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting it as a symbol of Manassas’ commitment to balanced growth and preservation of its unique charm. The groundbreaking ceremony, hosted by Van Metre Homes, served as a fitting tribute to the beginning of Ashberry, with distinguished speakers from both the city and the development company sharing their vision for the future of Manassas.
