New York Construction Report staff writer
Construction has started on Hillview Commons, a 52-unit affordable housing development for seniors that will replace the Tonawanda Housing Authority’s aging Jacob J. Guzzetta complex.
The $26-million project, announced Thursday by Gov. Kathy Hochul, is the latest in a series of state-backed housing initiatives aimed at increasing and preserving affordable units across Erie County. Under Hochul’s administration, New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) says it has created or preserved more than 11,000 homes in the county.
“Hillview Commons is more than a housing development, it’s an opportunity to support our seniors who deserve affordable and modern homes,” Hochul said. “Hillview Commons will create new apartments, adding to Western New York’s housing stock and strengthening the Tonawanda community.”
The new building will offer apartments for residents aged 55 and older earning up to 60 per cent of the area median income. Current tenants from the JJG complex will be relocated into the new units once work is complete, and the existing building will be demolished.
The all-electric building, led jointly by 3d Development Group LLC and THA Development Corporation, will feature energy-efficient appliances, electric heat pumps for heating and hot water, and upgraded accessibility features, including units designed for mobility, hearing and visual impairments. Amenities will include a community room with kitchen, computer lab, laundry facilities and a backup generator.
Financing for Hillview Commons is supported primarily through HCR’s Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, which will generate about $15.5 million in equity. Additional funding includes $3 million through the state LIHTC program, $5 million from the HOME program and $1.3 million from the Public Housing Modernization program. Erie County contributed $500,000 through its Home Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan allocation. M&T Bank is the equity partner and NBT Bank is providing construction financing.
