A major housing initiative connected to NBA legend Allen Iverson is officially moving forward once again in Newport News, following months of uncertainty and community debate.

According to local CBS affiliate WTKR, city officials have approved a critical zoning change that clears the way for Iverson Landing, a planned 120-unit residential development in the Denbigh area near Old Fort Eustis Boulevard. The decision reverses an earlier setback this year, when the Newport News City Council initially voted against the proposal due to unresolved concerns.

The project has been in development for several years and represents a personal commitment for Iverson and developer Alvin Keels of A4 Development Group. Both men grew up in Newport News and have long discussed creating a project that would give back to families in their hometown. After the council’s approval, Keels described the moment as deeply meaningful, saying the vote validated years of effort and collaboration. He added that seeing the project finally come together was a major milestone.

Although Iverson did not attend the council meeting, he has remained a consistent advocate for increasing access to affordable and quality housing in the region. Local station WAVY reported that Iverson Landing is designed to serve working families throughout Hampton Roads, a goal strongly supported by city leadership. Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones has repeatedly emphasized the need for expanded housing options, viewing developments like Iverson Landing as a key part of the city’s long-term growth and economic strategy.

The renewed approval comes after extensive community engagement, including multiple public meetings and revisions to the proposal. Earlier this year, residents raised concerns about increased traffic, safety risks, and the overall impact on the surrounding neighborhood. In February, those concerns led the city council to reject the plan, citing the need for additional clarity and planning.

Local resident Sean Fowler voiced the frustrations shared by several neighbors, warning that increased traffic could lead to congestion and accidents during peak commuting hours. “People are going to get anxious trying to leave the apartment complex,” Fowler said, expressing fears about morning traffic jams and road safety.

Developers say those concerns have been taken seriously and addressed through updated infrastructure plans. The roadway serving the development will be widened, and a new turn lane will be added along Fort Eustis Boulevard to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. Keels also pushed back on claims that the project would be overly dense, explaining that the zoning change shifts the development from high-density to medium-density housing.

Despite mixed reactions within the community, the project is now officially back on track. Even critics have acknowledged the limitations of opposing a privately owned development. Fowler himself noted that while residents can voice concerns, the land ultimately belongs to its owners, and development is inevitable.

Construction on Iverson Landing is expected to begin within the next 18 to 24 months. Keels reiterated his commitment to delivering a high-quality community that aligns with the promises made throughout the approval process. “We’re committed to building something the city can be proud of,” he said, adding that the team looks forward to contributing positively to the future of Newport News.