HUD project approved – More senior housing to be created
By Louisa Weeden
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Regional Director Taylor Caswell, who oversees HUD’s New England operations, recently traveled to Crossway Village in Lee to celebrate HUD's approval of Elder Services’ application for HUD 202 funding to convert the Hyde Building of the former Central School in Lee into 13 one-bedroom apartments for low-income seniors. Crossway Village, a 38-unit senior housing residence, was converted from the main building of the Lee Central School, and has been occupied since early 2006 and has a waiting list.
Elder Services’ Executive Director Robert P. Dean welcomed all to the event. Stating that, “Crossway Village is a wonderful example of what senior housing could and should be. It is safe; it is of quality; and it is affordable. There are 38 spacious one-bedroom apartments, a community room with such amenities as a computer lab and kitchen facilities. Hot, nutritious noontime meals prepared by Elder Services’ Nutrition Program are served Monday through Friday. The restored gymnasium is utilized by the residents and community members alike, including the Lee Youth Association. The Lee Council on Aging has its office and activities here. An Elder Services Residential Services Coordinator is located on-site to provide information and case management. Berkshire Housing Services provides a live-in Residential Manager.”
In summary, said Dean, “There is a great need, not only in Lee, but throughout Berkshire County for more senior housing like Crossway Village — senior housing with enriched services to meet the needs of the residents as those needs change as they age in place.”
Dean introduced the speakers, which included Regional HUD Director Taylor Caswell, State Senator Benjamin B. Downing, State Representative Smitty Pignatelli, and Lee Selectman Patricia Carlino. Jason Ostrander, Economic Development Specialist from U.S. Rep. John W. Olver’s office was also in attendance.
Caswell presented Elder Services with a ceremonial check in the amount of $1,855,500. Caswell told an audience of legislators, Crossway residents, Lee Town officials, Elder Services representatives and other community partners that receiving the grant money was a tremendous accomplishment for the Berkshire community and the Town of Lee.
Caswell stated, “Receiving a grant under this program speaks volumes about the coordination and professionalism involved in making this project a reality, from Elder Services of Berkshire County to town officials in Lee, this has to be a team effort, and we at HUD are thrilled to be a part of this team.” He added that the first phase of the conversion from former school to senior housing, Crossway Village, was “ beautiful.”
Representative Pignatelli agreed with Caswell, saying to the residents, “You have won the lottery.” Senator Benjamin B. Downing cited the “tenacity” of U.S. Rep. John W. Olver, and of Elder Services of Berkshire County as being a key factor in Elder Services receiving the second grant.
Lee Selectwoman Patricia Carlino added that she was excited that the historic Hyde Building would be preserved and protected by the upcoming renovation. “The building must be cared for, as we care for seniors.”
Groundbreaking for the conversion of the Hyde Building into what is being tentatively called “Crossway Tower” is scheduled for spring or summer of 2009.
