Broadleigh Lofts project offers support to homeless veterans in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- As chief financial and administrative officer for the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, Tom Williamson is naturally involved with the ongoing Broadleigh Lofts development. His role as a veteran, however, makes the project personal.

"The vision for this development is to help ensure that veterans in Franklin County have a safe and stable place to call home — together, we can achieve the goal of no veteran being homeless," Williamson said.

Broadleigh Lofts is a $26 million project by the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, which said the nearly four-acre vacant site will consist of three three-story buildings. The development is being built in tandem with Woda Cooper Companies.

According to CMHA, the property includes 25 apartments with rental assistance and supportive services exclusively for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The remaining 59 units are reserved for general households earning less than 80% of Franklin County's annual income.

According to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 7% of the general population are veterans, but nearly 13% of the homeless population are veterans. The data also estimates around 633 veterans in Ohio are homeless, although some may be unsheltered so it is difficult to confirm the number.

Williamson said the project is the first development in CMHA's 90-year history specifically dedicated to serving homeless veterans. The location -- on East Broad Street near John Glenn International Airport -- was selected because of its proximity to VA Wylie Clinic, a Veterans Affairs treatment center, as well as other geographic benefits like transportation.

Williamson was honored for exemplary service while serving with elite special operations forces as an Army Ranger. He said his past work in the military -- especially his role managing a multi-billion dollar budget -- has helped him look toward innovation in his work with CMHA.

He said he's not alone in gaining skills in the military that help him in civilian work, something he encouraged employers to keep in mind when receiving job applications from veterans.

“As a 100% disabled veteran, I am blessed that my disabilities have not affected my ability to work. I remain in contact with my buddies who have not been as fortunate as I,” Williamson said. “Most have suffered debilitating physical injuries, others have suffered from complications associated with post traumatic stress. We can do better.”

He said he hopes the supportive services and housing stability that will be offered at Broadleigh Lofts can offer a chance for veterans to heal. Leasing on the 60%-completed development is expected to begin in late spring of 2025.