A transformative housing initiative is underway in the Villa Heights section of Collinsville, marking a collaborative effort between the Henry County Board of Supervisors, the Harvest Foundation, and the West Piedmont Planning District Commission (WPPDC). The partnership aims to construct 13 single-family homes that had previously been removed and had suffered from drug-related incidents.
The project, located at 1616 Stultz Road, focuses on the construction of three houses. In April, the Board of Supervisors awarded a $608,940 construction contract to Taylor Enterprise of Bassett, Virginia, for the first three homes to be built on lots 9, 10, and 11. Construction is set to begin immediately, with additional homes to follow in phases as funds from home sales become available.
“This is more than just breaking ground on new homes—it’s about rebuilding hope and opportunity in Villa Heights,” said Joe Bryant, vice-chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors. “We are proud to work with dedicated partners who share our vision for strong, affordable neighborhoods.”
Bryant added that work to get the project going had been something he worked on for eight to 10 years.
“We had to build these houses, we have to have houses in this community,” Bryant said, and noted that housing is needed in other districts as well to help grow the county.
“This project is an example of innovation between public, private, and non-profit partners. We’ve come together over several years to solve real challenges,” he said.
Lee Clark, director of Planning, Zoning, And Inspections, said that 15 duplexes were removed to prepare for the new build. “The commitment from the board of supervisors is what made this happen.”
In October 2024, the county entered into an agreement with the Harvest Foundation and WPPDC to support the development of affordable housing development.
The county initially acquired the parcels after seizing them due to drug activity and later demolished the dilapidated structures, paving the way for new construction.
During the October meeting, the county formally transferred the deed to the properties to the WPPDC, clearing the final hurdle for development to begin. The Harvest Foundation is helping to back the project, including covering the carrying costs for two homes at a time. The cost of each home will be capped at $200,000 to ensure an affordable price, and proceeds from the sales will return to the housing creation cycle in the area.
