More Affordable Housing Coming For Seniors In East Orange

EAST ORANGE, NJ — More affordable housing is on its way for seniors in East Orange.

Genesis Companies recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for 160 Halsted Street in East Orange. When it’s completed, the 60-unit building will have “100 percent affordable supportive senior housing,” the firm said.

In partnership with the East Orange Housing Authority and fellow co-developer The Metro Company, Genesis Companies will develop a new, ground-up 61,000-square-foot senior supporting housing development, with 52 one-bedroom units and eight two-bedroom residences.

The residences will be available to “very low,” “low” and “moderate” income groups, with 25 percent of the projects specifically set aside for homeless in need of permanent supportive housing in the county, according to a statement from the firm.

Genesis is participating in the Service for Independent Living program for all seniors. While in conjunction, supportive services, through Bridgeway Rehabilitative Services, will be available to residents through the Housing Authority’s existing programs, and several units will accommodate the needs of residents with disabilities.

Financing for the project’s rehabilitation was originated by Citibank, N.A., Bank of America, National Equity Fund LIHTC Equity, US Department of HUD and Federal Home Loan Bank AHP Grant. DMR Architects designed the senior supportive housing development in collaboration with general contractor ETC.

“Investing in strategic redevelopments is the first step towards reinvigorating the property and providing a higher quality of living for all its residents,” Mayor Ted Green said. “We applaud Genesis Companies and the East Orange Housing Authority for its commitment to building quality, affordable housing and hope the success of this redevelopment sets an example for future investments.”

“This redevelopment, part of our ‘Building Homes, Changing Lives’ program, will greatly enhance the quality of life for the property’s residents and provide services that are too often overlooked,” said Wilbert Gill, executive director of the East Orange Housing Authority.

“As we continue to create new solutions to maintain affordability for all our residents, partnerships with companies like Genesis Companies are more important than ever,” Gill said.

“The need for quality, affordable senior retail residences is urgent across the state of New Jersey and public-private partnerships, like this one, provide a framework for future developments,” said Karim Hutson, founder and managing partner at Genesis Companies.

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