The River District Association today hosted a ribbon cutting for the T.B. Fitzgerald, formerly the Coin-Ops building, now renovated into apartments.
Speakers included Mayor Alonzo Jones, City Manager Ken Larking, and River District Association CEO Diana Schwartz. The project was developed by Cobbled Holdings, LLC.
“The T.B. Fitzgerald building has been part of Danville’s landscape for generations, and today, we celebrate its rebirth,” Jones said. “Like so many buildings in our downtown, it once served as a hub of business and industry. Now, it will once again be a place full of life—this time as a home for those who want to live in and experience the vibrancy of our River District.”
With just 22 units, the T.B. Fitzgerald, located at 227 Lynn St., offers an intimate living experience in a well-lit, safe area at the heart of the River District, with convenient parking and easy walkability. The development will provide 11 market-rate apartments and 11 workforce housing units for tenants earning under 80% of the area median income.
The building’s name honors T.B. Fitzgerald, an influential figure in Danville’s history. T.B. was an early president of Dan River Mills, and the builder of several iconic downtown structures. A narrative about him is displayed in the lobby. To preserve the building’s history, developers retained the ghost sign of Associated Coin-Ops (located on the west end of the building), the last business to occupy the building. Historic elements were carefully incorporated into the design, thanks to Belk Architecture and lead architect Andy Shull, who balanced modern upgrades with the building’s industrial heritage.
The apartments feature upscale black stainless steel appliances, fully tiled bathrooms with black fixtures, and soundproofing measures such as gypcrete floors and insulated walls to reduce noise. Hickory flooring adds a unique touch. A detailed landscaping plan will enhance the property over time.
Schwartz said it is exciting to see more housing options in the district, particularly the re-use of this historic property. “There is a huge demand for residential living, especially in the district. People gravitate to living options that allow amenities available to our River District residents, such as the Riverwalk Trail and the many locally owned businesses within walking distance.”
Susan McCulloch, division director of housing & development for the City of Danville, added, “We’re excited to see needed residential opportunities opening in the city, and the Tobacco Warehouse District is a great place to live. The views of the Dan River from these units are beautiful. We appreciate Cobbled Holdings, LLC’s capital investment of more than $8 million in the city.”
The Industrial Development Authority of Danville will be working with Cobbled Holdings to offer a conditional real estate tax grant valued at up to $264,600 that will be paid over 15 years. The property is also in the enterprise zone and a state/federal historic district, so it is eligible for historic tax credits.
Contact Joie Ford with Riverfront Realty for lease information.