This week was an important step toward Vermont’s goal to create more affordable housing for Vermonters. On Wednesday, Fox Run Apartments in Berlin held its grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony, and on Thursday, a groundbreaking for Cambrian Way in Burlington took place. Both events signify a step in the right direction in making Vermont’s goal to increase affordable housing a reality statewide.
“Celebrating two new buildings in one week is a testament to how Vermont has stepped up to address the housing shortage by increasing investments in affordable housing,” said Maura Collins, Executive Director at Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA). “Smart investments in prime locations like these will continue to be necessary if we’re going to really address the needs.” VHFA provided financing and administration of funds for both properties.
The opening of Fox Run Apartments in Berlin brings 30 new and energy efficient 1- and 2-bedroom apartments online in Washington County. A mix of affordable and market rate units, the property is in a convenient location close to the town center, nearby essential services, and has green spaces, community gardens, and onsite access to resident services and property management. Specialized services for residents needing assistance, including families that were previously without housing, will also be coordinated through area social service groups. Funding for Fox Run totals over $15 million and comes from several private and public sources including VHFA which administered 9% low income housing tax credits (LIHTC), LIAC permanent loan, and HIVE loan. Other funding sources include the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, Vermont Community Development Program, Citizens Bank, Town of Berlin, NeighborWorks, Efficiency Vermont and Green Mountain Power.
The Cambrian Way groundbreaking makes way for 40 new and permanently affordable apartments in Burlington, the largest and most densely populated city in the state. The new homes include mixed income apartments and market value condominiums. Ten of the 40 apartments will be supported by Project Based Vouchers provided by Burlington Housing Authority, and 8 homes will be designated for households experiencing or at risk for homelessness. Champlain Housing Trust, a co-developer with Evernorth, will coordinate resident services for at risk residents. Financing for the project was provided by VHFA including 4% low income housing tax credits (LIHTC) and State Rental Tax Credits, LIAC permanent loan, Hive loan, and TE permanent loan. Other sources include the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, City of Burlington, Burlington Electric, and an anonymous charitable gift.
Photo: The groundbreaking for Cambrian Way in Burlington, August 7, 2025. Photo by Nate Lantieri