NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Residents in the newly-renovated Newport News Ivy Tower complex are upset and angry after issues keep arising in the building.
La’Shell Cuffee said her air conditioning has been out in the building for nearly four days while Hampton Roads has been in a heat wave.
“We are still human. We are not dogs," said Cuffee. "We don’t deserve to live in conditions like that. When apartment officials clock out and go home, they’re not living like that."
Not only is there no air conditioning, but the new windows that were installed are sealed so residents can't even get air circulating in their apartments.
Resident, Sarah Johnson says the windows weren’t like that before the renovation.
“...Everybody’s window was open. Everybody could get the fresh air, said Johnson. "I feel like that’s not fair. I’m spending all of this money in this building, everything in this building should be brand new. Apparently, something’s not brand new.”
Johnson said she’s disappointed overall with the renovations at Ivy Tower.
Just last week, owners of the apartment complex revealed changes after a year-long building renovation. According to the building owners, the changes included:
- New windows and a full exterior facade replacement
- Replacement and/or modernization of all major life-safety and building systems
- Installation of a new energy-efficient central heating and cooling system
- Improvement of interior common areas with a new community room and attached computer-learning center, laundry room and office
- Improved apartment interiors with energy-efficient lighting, plumbing fixtures and appliances and newly renovated kitchens and bathrooms
Cuffee said the elevator also stopped working in the 12-story complex making it hard for people inside.
“The building is 12 floors, and you have to take 12 flights of steps. We’re all trying to get out and I feel like it’s very dangerous,” said Cuffee.
Cuffee said she wants to see changes before something bad happens.
“I think it’s a trap. I just feel like that building right now is a trap," Cuffee said. "I don’t feel safe. I don’t feel comfortable. I feel like I’m in jail, so I don’t have peace of mind in my own home."
A statement from Ivy Tower official Michael J. Packard from Weston Associates said:
We are aware of this problem, and our A/C technician is feverishly working towards fixing it [Wednesday]. My team is also in the process of contacting residents directly so that they know we're on top of this issue and here to help.