MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 24, 2010) – Ryan Companies US, Inc., recently completed construction of Lexington Commons Apartments in St. Paul, Minn. The 45,351-square-foot, 48-unit facility will serve as a supportive housing community and was financed through Minnesota housing using federal stimulus funds. This project achieved LEED Certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

A 40-year-old nonprofit, CommonBond Communities secured financing primarily through federal stimulus funds administered through Minnesota Housing for a total of $8 million. The development is one of the first in the state of Minnesota to receive federal stimulus funds for affordable housing. The property consists of 48 new homes for adults who are currently homeless. Ryan completed the construction and Elness Swenson Graham Architects Inc. designed the apartment homes. The renovation project converts an existing nursing home into an affordable residential housing community that will serve the needs of one of the most vulnerable populations in the Twin Cities.

“Ryan shares CommonBond’s passion for preserving and investing in the communities in which we work,” said Paul Fate, President and CEO of CommonBond. “Ryan has delivered a high-quality, sustainable building that meets our strategic goals of addressing affordable housing and regional community revitalization needs. Ryan’s work on Lexington Commons Apartments will help CommonBond provide stable homes that lead to strong futures for residents.” 

“Working with CommonBond is always a fantastic experience,” said Jeff Hultgren, director of project development. “Their commitment to quality, affordable housing is making a real difference in creating better, more vibrant communities for everyone.” The project team also includes Ramsey County Mental Health, which will place  individuals who meet the federal definition of “chronic homeless” in housing at Lexington Commons and will also provide on-site services for residents. Residents will begin moving in October 2010.

The renovation of the four-story building, built in the 1960s, consisted of demolition of all non-structural walls, asbestos abatement, complete roof replacement and a new, high-efficiency mechanical system. Although the structure and exterior brick envelope of the building were in excellent condition, they were upgraded with new windows, architectural panels to cover the existing air conditioning sleeves and a professionally landscaped patio area.

The development was also designed to achieve LEED certification. Developed and administered by the U.S. Green Building Council, the LEED rating system is designed to promote design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing the negative environmental impacts of buildings and improving occupant health and well-being.

About CommonBond Communities
For 40 years, CommonBond Communities has provided stable homes, strong futures, and vibrant communities. The organization is the region’s largest nonprofit housing developer, manager and service provider, operating 5,000 rental apartments and townhomes throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. Close to 8,000 people – families, seniors and people with disabilities and other barriers call CommonBond home. Gifts to a Kresge Foundation challenge grant will help the organization continue to transform lives, engage the local community and provide housing as a long-term asset to surrounding neighborhoods. For more information visit www.commonbond.org.

About Ryan Companies, US, Inc.
Ryan Companies US, Inc., a nationally recognized builder, designer, developer and real estate manager, has specialized in fully integrated solutions for more than 70 years. Ryan builds lasting relationships with a project delivery model based on full-service customized solutions and total collaboration – pairing the customer’s needs and expectations with the talents of a team of developers, financiers, architects, engineers, constructors and property managers. In addition to its Minneapolis office, Ryan has offices in Chicago, Phoenix, San Diego, Tampa, Fla., and Cedar Rapids, Davenport and Des Moines, Iowa.

Editor’s note: Interviews with Ryan and CommonBond executives are available by contacting Madeline Riggs at 612-455-1755 or mriggs@psbpr.com and Deb Lande at 651-291-1750 or lande@commonbond.org.