The vision that began years ago as a bold promise to the people of Bahama Village has now come to life. On October 30, city officials, community leaders, and partners gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the Lofts at Bahama Village — a landmark affordable housing development that shows what’s possible when compassion, collaboration, and long-term commitment come together.
Community leaders and project partners join for the ribbon cutting at The Lofts at Bahama Village on October 30, with AH Monroe Executive Director Scott Pridgen cutting the ribbon.
Developed through a partnership between AH Monroe, the City of Key West, The Vestcor Companies, and local builder Charley Toppino & Sons, The Lofts transform 3.2 acres of former Navy land into 126 new affordable homes — 98 rental units and 28 homeownership opportunities — designed to help Key West’s workforce and families remain rooted in the island community they call home and contribute to every day.
A Celebration of Partnership and Promise
At the ceremony, speakers including Mayor Danise “Dee Dee” Henriquez and AH Monroe Executive Director Scott Pridgen reflected on the years of coordination, advocacy, and trust behind the $52 million development.
“So much heart, time, and collaboration has gone into making this vision a reality,” said Pridgen.
“The Lofts are more than buildings — they are opportunity, stability, and hope for the people who make our island thrive.”
AH Monroe Executive Director Scott Pridgen addresses residents, partners, and community members at The Lofts at Bahama Village ribbon-cutting.
Homes Built for the Community
As the nonprofit development partner, long-term community steward, and property manager for The Lofts, AH Monroe played a central role in shaping the vision, design, and resident-focused priorities of the project from the start.
Construction was led by Charley Toppino & Sons and Marino Construction, whose deep history in the Keys helped bring the site to life with both craftsmanship and care. The Vestcor Companies, a longstanding partner in Florida workforce housing, provided development leadership that helped shape the Lofts’ blend of rental and ownership options.
AH Monroe Director of Development and Engagement Leah Stockton shared that residents began moving into rental units as soon as they were ready in early September, with nearly all now leased. “We wanted to prioritize Bahama Village families and ensure local workers could afford to stay in Key West,” Stockton said.
“You could not ask for a better location or a better symbol of community progress.”
A Resident’s Dream Come True
For new residents like Theresa, who has lived in Bahama Village her entire life, The Lofts represent more than a roof over her head — they’re a homecoming. “When I got my keys, I cried,” she said.
“It felt like a dream come true.”
A Future Built on Hope
The Lofts at Bahama Village stand as a powerful reminder of what shared vision can achieve. This project reflects the progress that’s possible when our community comes together — and also the work still ahead to ensure more people across the Keys have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes.
AH Monroe remains committed to building on this momentum, creating pathways to health, housing, and hope throughout the Florida Keys.
Althea, one of The Lofts’ newest residents, celebrates move-in day in her new kitchen.
