New Bronx Development Aims to Provide Affordable Housing for Seniors

News Summary

The newly opened Dorothy Shi Garden Towers in the Bronx addresses the urgent need for affordable housing for low-income seniors aged 62 and older. With 150 units, including 45 set aside for formerly homeless seniors, this development supports vulnerable populations and aims to create a dignified living environment. Developed by Foxy Management, JLD Advisory, and nonprofit partner HANAC, it features energy-efficient designs, sustainability initiatives, and essential services, with residents beginning to move in as of January 2024.

New Bronx Development Aims to Provide Affordable Housing for Seniors

A new residential complex, the Dorothy Shi Garden Towers, has opened its doors in the Bronx, addressing a significant need for accessible and affordable housing for low-income seniors. This development is particularly focused on benefiting individuals aged 62 and older, with a total of 150 housing units dedicated to this demographic.

Among the 150 apartment units, 45 are specifically reserved for formerly homeless seniors, highlighting the project’s commitment to helping vulnerable populations. With the Bronx facing an ongoing crisis in affordable senior housing, this initiative aims to provide a dignified living environment, as well as essential services for its residents.

The project was spearheaded by developers including Foxy Management, JLD Advisory, and its nonprofit partner, HANAC. Together, they collaborated to create a sustainable living space designed by Newman Design, ensuring that the needs of seniors are met both in terms of accessibility and comfort.

Infrastructure and Cost of Development

The construction of the Dorothy Shi Garden Towers was managed by Lendlease Construction, and the overall project cost was approximately $93 million. Significant funding to support this development came from various sources, including J.P. Morgan, Boston Financial, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, and New York State Homes and Community Renewal. This multi-faceted financial backing was crucial in making the project a reality.

Rental and Financial Support

All of the units in the complex are designated for seniors earning at or below 50% of the area median income. The inclusion of Section 8 rental subsidies further enhances the affordability of these units, ensuring that low-income seniors have access to a safe and comfortable living space.

Sustainable Living Features

A key aspect of the design focuses on sustainability and energy efficiency. The two residential towers are built to meet passive house standards, which results in lower energy consumption and a smaller carbon footprint. Additional sustainable elements include green walls, a rooftop solar array, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and Energy Star appliances throughout the apartments.

Supporting Quality of Life

In addition to sustainable living features, the towers are equipped with safety measures designed to promote the well-being of residents. These measures include non-slip floors, handrails in hallways, and adequate lighting to enhance security and navigate common areas easily.

One unique aspect of the development is the incorporation of a greenhouse that supplies residents with fresh herbs for cooking. This not only promotes healthful living but also connects residents to nature, facilitating a sense of community.

Timeline for Move-Ins

Residents began moving into the Dorothy Shi Garden Towers as of January 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for seniors in the Bronx. The aim is to create a supportive community environment where seniors can thrive, fostering connections to social services as needed.

The development fulfills a critical need in the community and represents a significant step toward addressing the lack of affordable housing for seniors in New York City. With a focus not just on housing but also on providing services and support, the Dorothy Shi Garden Towers is poised to make a profound impact on the lives of its residents.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Construction NY Resources

Additional Resources

• Housing Finance: Garden Towers Brings Sustainable Affordable Senior Living to the Bronx
• Wikipedia: Affordable housing
• Astoria Post: HANAC Celebrates 52 Years of Service
• Google Search: Senior housing initiatives
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sustainability