Education Blog

The Community Benefits of Modern-Day Self Storage

Written by JT Mitchell | July 13, 2024

Self storage can be a great fit for many communities but residents often need to be educated to understand the benefits. Despite lingering stereotypes, modern self storage facilities are far from the ratty sheds of yesteryear. They've evolved into luxury commodities, often repurposing otherwise unused land.

Self storage offers benefits like minimal traffic, subdued lighting, and reasonable operating hours. These are frequently issues that neighbors worry about, so it's important to highlight that self storage often occupies commercially zoned land, which could otherwise host noisy, 24/7 businesses like gas stations or convenience stores.

The key to winning over skeptical neighbors is simple: listen to them. Nobody wants a faceless, impersonal corporation swooping in and making significant changes to their community without consulting the people who actually live there. Engaging with stakeholders early in the planning process fosters a sense of inclusion and ownership among residents.

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of this process is educating neighbors about what modern self storage entails. Today's facilities prioritize aesthetics and can even resemble townhomes rather than traditional storage units.

DXD STORAGE FACILITY IN BRISTOL, RI SPORTS COMMUNITY-ORIENTED DESIGN

PHOTO: SCOTT HUGHES, DXD CAPITAL

A great example is DXD’s recent project in Bristol, RI, which just opened its doors. It was designed to fit seamlessly with the historical New England elements. DXD also constructed a daycare in addition to the self storage facility. When DXD purchased the land, only a dilapidated daycare remained. In a display of dedication to the local community, DXD decided to build "Bristol's Li'l Angels," a state-of-the-art daycare facility catering to the neighborhood's children.

PHOTO: BRISTOL DAYCARE RIBBON CUTTING

While self storage might not be the first thing that comes to mind regarding neighborhood real estate, DXD takes pride in delivering top-notch facilities and actively engaging with the community.