Provided by City of Manassas
The City of Manassas has received a proposal that represents a major step toward advancing the community’s long-term housing goals.
Good Housing, a Northern Virginia–based developer with experience in workforce and attainable housing, has submitted plans for a 100-unit apartment building at The Landing at Cannon Branch, on the site of the former DMV building. The proposal marks the first opportunity for the City to consider a project that directly supports the housing and neighborhood priorities outlined in the City’s 2045 Comprehensive Plan.
“This proposal is not just about construction—it’s about the people who make Manassas work,” said Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger. “Our teachers, police officers, firefighters, emergency responders, nurses, and other essential employees deserve the opportunity to live in the community they serve. We’re committed to finding ways to make that possible while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency.”
The City’s Comprehensive Plan — Housing and Neighborhoods — emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced mix of housing options and ensuring quality and affordability for residents. The Plan, which is reviewed every five years through a public engagement process, guides City policy and investment decisions related to housing and community development.
In 2019, the City worked with a diverse stakeholder group to develop a detailed Housing Plan that assesses Manassas’ existing housing stock, identifies demographic trends, and outlines strategies to address local needs.
“While the City has programs and partnerships to support renters, first-time homebuyers, and neighborhoods, there remains a growing need for additional efforts,” said City Manager Steve Burke. “City Council has taken steps to address that need by establishing a Housing Advisory Board, hiring a Housing and Neighborhood Coordinator, and creating a Housing Investment Fund to support new initiatives.”
According to Burke, the proposal at the former DMV site aligns with those strategic goals and reflects the City’s continued effort to make housing more accessible to the community’s workforce.
The proposal includes:
- Approximately 100 one- and two-bedroom apartments
- The development will provide rents to tenants at a rate of 40-70% of the area’s median income for a period of 30-years. Depending on household size, rents are estimated to be between $1,200 and $2,200 a month.
- Priority leasing consideration for public safety employees, teachers, nurses, and other essential workers
- Green building certification
- Units averaging 900 square feet with modern amenities
- Architecture consistent with The Landing’s master plan
- Location on about three acres at Gateway Drive and Godwin Drive
The estimated project cost is approximately $35 million. Good Housing has proposed to purchase the City-owned property for $3 million.
If advanced, the project would be expected to:
- Increase attainable housing options for Manassas residents
- Generate more than $250,000 in new annual real estate tax revenue on a currently tax-exempt parcel
- Provide the City with interest income through loan repayment if financing is approved
- Reinvest loan proceeds into the City’s Housing Investment Fund for future neighborhood initiatives
The City is being asked to consider low-interest financing as part of the proposed funding structure. No tax abatements or grants have been requested. Any financial participation would be reviewed as part of the FY 2027 Budget process.
The Purchase and Sale Agreement for the property will be considered by the Manassas City Council at a public hearing on Dec. 8, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
For more information about the City’s housing initiatives and long-range planning, visit manassasva.gov/housing and manasssasva.gov/2045compplan
