November 2006

HOUSING: People Inc. receives grant funds to build apartments in the Town of Lockport

By Tasha Kates/katest@gnnewspaper.com
Lockport Union-Sun & Journal

11/9/2006

— TOWN OF LOCKPORT — Almost $6 million has been granted to People Inc. for a new lowincome
senior hous-ing complex on Tonawanda Creek Road.

The non-profit human services agency was presented with a $5,915,800 check Tuesday afternoon by
Congressman Thomas M. Reynolds, R-Clarence, and Roy Bernardi, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The federal funding was acquired through HUD's Section 202 Program, which provides grants to nonprofits to acquire, build or rehabilitate rental properties for senior citizens.

People Inc. approached Town Supervisor Marc R. Smith about 10 months ago to find a place to build
the complex after they researched the area.

"We felt there was a need for affordable senior housing," said People Inc. CEO Rhonda Frederick.
Smith visited two of People Inc.'s 10 facilities to see what the quality of life was like for the seniors.
He said he was impressed.

"It's a really nice setup," Smith said. "They didn't skimp on building materials."

People Inc. eventually chose a properly-zoned site just behind the Creekview Estates apartments near Transit Road. Apartment complex owner Louis Polito the wooded site behind his complex, which he will sell to the non-profit so they can build there.

Frederick said the proposed building will have 49 one-bedroom units in a building with two to three
stories. A live-in caretaker and full-time manager will be on the premises to keep everything in order.
Smith said Williamsville-based builder Savarino Construction Services Corporation is set to construct
the building.

Potential residents for the complex have to be older than62. Frederick said eligible seniors will pay up to 30 percent of their adjusted gross income for rent and utilities if they meet requirements.
About $500,000 of the grant will go to residents for a three-year stipend to help pay their rent.
People Inc. will still have to present their plans to the town's planning board. Frederick expects Savarino will begin construction in the spring if the project goes through.

The company has four other pending projects in various stages of construction across Western New
York.

Bernardi said projects like these are very important for the county's aging community.

"When we were youngsters, we never thought we would get old," Bernardi said. "What our
grandparents and parents did for us, we have an obligation to do for them."

Contact Tasha Kates at 439-9222, Ext. 6241.