NORFOLK -- It's long been a shelter for Norfolk's homeless. Now, the Union Mission building has been sold to become apartments that cater to downtown workers.
The imposing brick structure was built in March 1909 and was financed by John D. Rockefeller as the Navy YMCA. In 1972, the Union Mission took over.
On Wednesday, Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim announced the historic building had been sold to U.S. Development of Columbia, South Carolina. The clompany plans to turn the 100-year-old building into 80-100 apartment units that should run in the $800 to $1,000-a-month range.
U.S Development has promised to become a committed part of the community.
"Over the next 10-15 years, their hope is to develop 1,000-1,500 housing units and so they are looking at a number of other properties," said Cathy Coleman of the Downtown Norfolk Council.
The new bulding, to be called The Rockefeller, should be open in 20 months.
The sale is good news for the Union Mission. Officials say the property sold for $6 million and will allow them to finance their new home on Virginia Beach Blvd. and remain debt-free.
"Even in this economy, we've been able to raise about $10.8 million -- with the sale of the building downtown and an additional $4.5 million we will be able to complete the permanent men's shelter," said Linda Jones of the Union Mission.
