Virginia Construction and Development Firms Join Forces to Transform Historic Power Plant into Modern Residential Community

“This project is special for our team because it gives us the opportunity to preserve the character of a place with historical significance, but add modern charm.” — John Scott, CEO of Scott-Long Construction

LORTON, VA, UNITED STATES, November 13, 2024– The former site of the Lorton Reformatory and Penitentiary, which served as a correctional facility for over a century, is now being reimagined as Liberty, a dynamic mixed-use community. Originally commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt in the early 1900s, the Lorton Reformatory was decommissioned in 2001 and the property was transferred to Fairfax County, Virginia.

Scott-Long Construction is proud to be part of a unique collaboration with The Alexander Company and Elm Street Communities to breathe new life into this historical property by converting the former prison and power plant into residential spaces while retaining their original charm. Pre-leasing for these residences will begin 4-6 months before the project's final completion.

Phase 1 of the development has already seen the conversion of sections of the old prison into 165 historic apartments, as well as 83 new townhomes and 24 single-family homes. Phase 2 includes the creation of 74 new townhomes, 6 historic condominiums, and commercial spaces. Additionally, Scott-Long Construction is overseeing the development of 10 new residential units, dubbed The Power Plant at Liberty.

This redevelopment partnership highlights the ability of developers to rejuvenate underutilized historic sites while preserving their authentic character. The housing units cater to a range of income levels, offering diverse living options.

The new homes and apartments maintain the site's distinctive brick exteriors, while interiors have been thoughtfully designed with high-end finishes, including granite countertops. Many of the apartment units retain the high ceilings and signature black window paneling that were part of the building's original prison design.

“This project is special for our team because it gives us the opportunity to preserve the character of a place with historical significance, but add modern charm,” said John Scott, CEO of Scott-Long Construction. “Our team is also thrilled to contribute to the housing supply in the Lorton community.”

“We’re excited to enter this next phase of Liberty’s transformation, rehabilitating the historic power plant into apartments,” said Joe Alexander, President of The Alexander Company. “Watching Liberty grow and evolve over the years has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to have turned this area into a welcoming community.”

In addition to the residential offerings, the community will feature a large gathering room, over three acres of green space for outdoor activities, electric car charging stations, and a fitness center overlooking a spacious courtyard. The property also offers a large pool, high-speed Wi-Fi in social areas, and ample space for residents to connect and relax.

“This residential community includes all of the modern amenities anyone would need for their living situation today,” John Scott added. “This project also shows that you don’t have to start completely from scratch when building a new project. You can take what's old and adapt it to be new.”

For added convenience, residents will have access to nearby amenities, including The Liberty Market, which offers a variety of shops and restaurants.

To learn more about The Power Plant at Liberty and the vision behind this transformative project, please visit [link to the development story].

About Scott-Long Construction

Scott-Long Construction, founded in 1961, is a leading construction and development firm based in the Washington Metropolitan Region. The company specializes in general contracting and development management services and has built long-standing relationships with clients, subcontractors, and design partners. Scott-Long Construction is committed to delivering high-quality projects with a focus on customer satisfaction and detail.

About The Alexander Company

With over 40 years of expertise, The Alexander Company specializes in historic preservation, urban development, and property management. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, the firm is dedicated to revitalizing significant historic buildings and transforming downtown neighborhoods across the country.

About Elm Street Communities

Founded in 1977, Elm Street Communities has built more than 64,000 homes across the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Known for its environmentally conscious planning and design, Elm Street focuses on creating communities that encourage recreational opportunities and foster connections among residents.