Senior Housing Underway in East Charlotte
In a dedicated response to the growing demand for affordable housing for the aging population in the city, a Charlotte local spearheads the development of a senior housing community in east Charlotte. This venture aims to create 32 new living units for the elderly, thus making significant strides towards addressing the housing crisis in this thriving North Carolinian city.
An Endeavor Close to Heart
Eliza Hammond, a seasoned pharmacist with an unwavering commitment to public welfare, has been perturbed by Charlotte’s staggering dearth of affordable housing. Refusing to be a mere onlooker, Hammond adopted a hands-on approach, embarking on a unique project— developing a new housing community for senior citizens in east Charlotte.
This ambitious 40,000-square-foot community will accommodate 32 residential units. The venture is expected to incur an approximate cost of $9 million. The site, on a 1.5-acre land parcel bought by Hammond’s mother during the pandemic, was approved for the said usage as an age-restricted and income-regulated residential community by March 2023 by the city of Charlotte.
Affordable Housing: An Opportunity
The term ‘affordable housing’ resonates deeply with Hammond, a proponent of equal opportunities for all. As a child, she and her family resided in affordable housing whilst her mother pursued a nursing degree. “We really should be a statistic, but because we had that net there for us when we needed it, it’s allowed us to really become the American dream,” recounts Hammond, narrating her humble beginnings. Given this personal history, it is understandable that she wants the upcoming apartments to be affordable for seniors, many of whom grapple with limited financial resources.
The Rising Costs and the Unequal Equation
Many seniors in Charlotte, surviving on fixed incomes, find the city’s rental market increasingly unaffordable. The average rent price in the city has spiked by 61% since 2010, rising from $932 per unit to $1,502, forcing many of the elderly to live in financially challenging circumstances. “There’s not a lot of housing for seniors here in the city,” observes Kristen Locke, an architect at Beehyyve.
Hammond’s upcoming project, Legacy Lake Senior Apartments, holds the promise of breathing new life into the city’s housing landscape. Further enhancing its appeal, this senior community will be designed in collaboration with the Black-owned Beehyyve architecture firm.
Addressing the Rising Need for Affordable Senior Housing
As it stands, Mecklenburg County has a fair number of programs for seniors, including home repair services and food assistance. However, the need for affordable senior housing continues to climb. The county’s population of adults 65 years and older is projected to double by 2041, which will undoubtedly put an even greater strain on the current housing situation.
Senior housing, while existent in Charlotte, is still limited. The initiative by Hammond comes as a welcome sign of change, promising affordable and high-quality homes for seniors.
Legacy Lake Senior Apartments: Building a Better Tomorrow
The proposed Legacy Lake Senior Apartments is expected to feature a workout space and a health center, thereby promoting a holistic and active lifestyle for seniors. With an architectural plan that includes four stories, each approximately 10,000 square feet, the development ensures ample space for comfortable living. To accommodate varied needs, both one- and two-bedroom apartments will be offered, further contributing to comfortable and accommodating senior living.
