West Virginia Freedom and Independence Project
Innovation in Accessible Housing and Transportation Infrastructure
The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council’s (WVSILC) West Virginia Freedom and Independence Project (WVFIP) is made possible through a Congressionally Directed Spending Grant totaling $1,980,000.
This significant funding will play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities across the state by promoting independence and community integration. The grant was secured through the offices of Senator Jim Justice and Senator Shelley Moore Capito and was included in the FY2026 Senate Appropriations Bill.
The purpose of this project is to identify and acquire strategically located properties along public transit routes and renovate them to meet or exceed applicable accessibility standards. These efforts will create permanent, accessible housing units for individuals with disabilities.
By prioritizing locations along established transit lines, the project will promote community integration, increase access to essential services, and reduce transportation barriers for residents.
These housing units will be made available as long-term, affordable options designed to support individuals receiving community-based services, including transition services, through qualified partner organizations.
This project will significantly expand access to accessible housing and transportation for people with disabilities in West Virginia
Phase 1 of the Project
Located on a public transit line, the WVSILC headquarters is a two-story building with office space on the first floor, four one-bedroom apartments on the second floor, and 2,000 square feet of undeveloped space.
- ADA-Compliant Entrance Renovations to ensure safe, secure, and independent access to the office.
- Elevator Installation to provide mobility access to residential units and shared training space.
- Renovation of Undeveloped Space into a multi-use training center for partner organizations to offer programs focused on employment and independent living skills.
- Apartment Upgrades to meet ADA standards, creating accessible housing for individuals with disabilities.
- Building-Wide Safety Improvements to ensure code compliance, safe ingress/egress, and overall accessibility.
Phase 2 of the Project
The initiative of this project is to improve access to accessible housing and transportation throughout West Virginia. Through collaboration with local organizations, community leaders, and advocates, the WV Freedom and Independence Project will create tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities across the state.
- Acquisition of housing to be renovated and brought to ADA standards for accessibility (single or multi-family)
- Public Transit Access to make accessible transportation available
- Partner Organization Involvement to assist people with disabilities to transition into these accessible properties
Moving Ahead
The further acquisition and renovation of properties. Long-term operations—including staffing, supportive services, and routine maintenance—will be supported through non-federal funding sources, rental income, and partnerships with community-based service providers. This approach ensures permanent, accessible, and sustainable housing for individuals with disabilities, while strengthening West Virginia’s independent living infrastructure.
We have already applied for an additional $1,500,000 in Congressional Direct Spending through Senator Capito's office to expand this project.
In Summary
The West Virginia Statewide Independent Living Council’s (WVSILC) West Virginia Freedom and Independence Project (WVFIP) is a $1.98 million initiative funded through Congressionally Directed Spending secured by Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito. The project aims to expand accessible, affordable housing for individuals with disabilities across West Virginia while promoting independence and community integration.
The initiative focuses on acquiring and renovating properties located along public transit routes to ensure residents have better access to transportation and essential services. Phase 1 centers on upgrading the WVSILC headquarters, including installing an elevator, creating ADA-compliant entrances, renovating apartments, and developing a training center. Phase 2 expands efforts statewide by acquiring additional properties, collaborating with local partners, and creating tailored housing solutions.
The project emphasizes long-term sustainability through non-federal funding, rental income, and partnerships with service providers. Overall, WVFIP is designed to significantly increase accessible housing options, reduce transportation barriers, and strengthen independent living opportunities for people with disabilities. An additional $1.5 million in funding has been requested to further expand the program.