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September 9, 2010

Apartments for seniors coming

Low-income complex could be built within next year

By Cathy Spaulding Phoenix Staff Writer

— A new low-income apartment complex for seniors could be built on Muskogee’s west side within the next year, the Muskogee Housing Authority said.

The Housing Authority is planning to build the 13-unit complex, Fairview Terrace, at 129 S. 44th St.

J.D. Foster, executive director of Muskogee Housing Authority, said the city is waiting for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to finish the closing papers for the project, part of the federal Section 202 housing program. Closing is set for Sept. 28.

Once the closing is done, construction could start on the project, Foster said. He estimated construction to take six to 10 months, depending on the weather. He estimated construction cost at $1.15 million.

The complex would feature 13 one-bedroom apartments for people aged 62 and older on a low income, Foster said. He said he could not say what income levels would qualify.

“Income guidelines change,” he said.

A HUD website said the Section 202 program offers affordable housing with supportive services for older adults.

“It provides very low-income elderly with options that allow them to live independently but in an environment that provides support activities such as cleaning, cooking, transportation, etc.,” the website said.

Foster said the complex would feature garbage disposals in each unit as well as a laundry room and meeting room on site.

He said the Housing Authority could start taking applications about 60 days before construction is completed. Foster said he does not expect a waiting list, though the complex could fill quickly because of the Housing Authority’s other senior and disabled housing projects.

“We have no problem keeping Honor Heights Tower, Azalea Terrace and Heritage Park always occupied at 100 percent,” he said.

Reach Cathy Spaulding at 684-2928 or cspaulding@muskogeephoenix.com.

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