County Executive Robert P. Astorino joined others, including some of the new residents, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Nov. 18, in celebration of the opening of the Mews at Baldwin Place, a 72-unit affordable housing project for seniors in Somers.
The event took place at the site, located on Clayton Boulevard, located by Mahopac Avenue.
"These 72 new rental apartments in northern Westchester County will offer safe, affordable homes, and provide services for senior citizens," said Astorino. "Residents can take full advantage of the convenience of walking to shopping and transportation, features that will assist them to live independently."
He added, "The construction of this development bolstered the local economy by providing between 150 and 200 jobs from 20 different trades during the 20 months of the construction of the housing development."
Westchester County contributed $3.75 million from programs overseen by the county's Planning Department. New York State contributed other funds. And private partners – Kearney Realty Development Group and TD Bank – put together the rest of the financing. The co-developers of the project are Kearney Realty and the Housing Action Council.
Westchester County and the Town of Somers entered into an agreement for construction of the new road known as Clayton Boulevard and other infrastructure improvements that were necessary to complete the development.
"Projects such as this one don't happen without the involvement – and financial help -- of many public and private groups," Astorino said.
The new fair and affordable rental apartments are for senior citizens aged 62 and older. The Mews is located on 5.08 acres by Mahopac Avenue in the Town of Somers. Clustered in a community setting, two buildings each have 36 one-bedroom rental apartments. The Mews is fully rented. To apply to be on the waiting list contact the Housing Action Council at (914) 332-4144.
Rents range from approximately $470 to $895 per month. Tenants pay for their own heat, hot water and electricity. Hudson River Health Care will provide health services for 11 frail elderly tenants and will extend services for all of the residents.
The apartments are for senior citizen households with incomes at or below 30 percent and up to 60 percent of Westchester County's Area Median Income, currently $22,400 to $44,760 for one person and $25,600 to $51,120 for two people. The apartments will remain affordable for a minimum of 50 years.
Westchester County provided subsidies totaling $3,750,000 for the 72 units, including: $2 million from New Homes Land Acquisition; $1.1 million from the Housing Implementation Fund for infrastructure improvements, and $650,000 from the HOME Investment Partnership Program. New York State Homes and Community Renewal provided low income housing tax credits in the amount of $10,851,000 and $1,985,000 from the Housing Trust Fund. The total cost of the project was just under $20 million.