COLUMBUS, OH - The NRP Group, a vertically integrated, best-in-class developer, builder, and manager of multifamily housing, announced the grand opening of The Lofton, a 245-unit family-focused housing community in Columbus’s South High neighborhood. Developed in partnership with the City of Columbus and faith-based nonprofit Community Development for All People, the project features thoughtfully designed homes serving households earning between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
“The Lofton represents a meaningful step forward for Columbus as the city grows in population and job opportunities,” said Aaron Pechota, Executive Vice President of Development at The NRP Group. “We and our partners designed these homes for the families that power the city, with spaces that foster connection, growth and stability. Together, we’ve created a development that will anchor the South High corridor and support its continued growth for generations.”
Located just off of South High Street at 55 Fornof Road, The Lofton is designed for families, and more than half of all residences are a mix of three- to four-bedroom homes. A 3,500 square-foot commercial space on the first floor is reserved for a daycare operator to support the needs of residents and the surrounding community.
“Transformative projects like The Lofton help unlock the full potential of our city,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther. “Through a combination of public and private investment, we are bringing new housing, new energy and new opportunities to the South High neighborhood, setting the stage for more people to live, work and thrive in Columbus.”
The Lofton offers easy access to downtown Columbus, the Short North Arts District, the Arena District and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, as well as public transit along the South High corridor. Retail, dining and entertainment options are within walking distance, while major employment hubs and educational institutions, including Columbus State Community College, are minutes away.
The new community was designed by MA Design, a women-owned Columbus firm with a 45-year history specializing in family-oriented and affordable housing. Apartments feature fully equipped kitchens, modern cabinetry, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and walk-in closets. Residents will have access to onsite parking, elevators, package concierge services and laundry facilities.
The Lofton offers residents a robust suite of amenities that encourage connection, wellness and convenience. Indoor amenities include a fitness center, community room and spaces for gatherings and recreation. Outdoor areas feature walkable paths throughout the property, a playground and landscaped open spaces designed for interaction and daily activity.
Development and financing partners include KeyBank, which provided construction and permanent financing, Hudson Housing Capital and support from the City of Columbus and Franklin County through local bond and rental housing programs.
“The Lofton is a strong example of how thoughtful partnerships can produce housing that’s both financially sound and socially impactful,” said Marisa Rodriguez, Vice President at Hudson Housing Capital. “We’re honored to have played a role in bringing this vital resource to the South High community.”
Co-developer Community Development for All People helped guide the project’s focus on larger homes and community-oriented spaces, building on prior collaborations with The NRP Group in Columbus, including Parsons Village Senior Apartments and the Residences at Career Gateway.
“The Lofton is the most recent demonstration of our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable housing,” said Mike Premo, Executive Director at Community Development for All People. “With this project marking our fifth partnership with The NRP Group, we’re proud to play a pivotal role in fostering vibrant communities where residents have access to safe, comfortable, and affordable homes that will enable them to not just live, but thrive.”
The Columbus metro area remains a priority market for The NRP Group. The firm has developed nearly 2,000 units across more than 10 properties in the city, and has developed more than 5,000 rental homes across the state of Ohio since 1994.