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Tonawanda housing authority unveils plan for new 3‑story senior building, replacement of aging units
Summary
Council members and city staff discussed a multi‑phase redevelopment of Housing Authority property that includes a new 3‑story, 52‑unit senior living building and broader site work; officials said relocation assistance and required amenities are part of the plan.
A staff representative outlined plans to replace two aging senior buildings on Tonawanda Housing Authority property with a new, three‑story senior living building, saying the project will provide 52 units for residents 55 and older and include required community amenities.
The housing official said the new building will be part of a larger redevelopment that will replace existing units “that are beyond repair and need to be taken down.” The official estimated the total multi‑phase redevelopment at about $120,000,000 and said the senior building itself is expected to cost between $20 million and $21 million.
Council members asked for details about occupancy and resident relocation. The staff representative said 53 units exist now and current occupancy is low — “around 25” occupied — and that the plan would relocate current residents during construction with a preference to return to the new building. “We pay for relocation, relocate all the existing seniors until the new building,” the staff member said, adding that those already on‑site will receive preference on the housing authority’s waiting list.
Officials said the redevelopment must meet state conditions, including provision of a community center, laundry facilities, a new playground and EV charging stations. The staff member said the new senior building would be fully ADA‑compliant and that the project team intends to rename sections of the housing authority campus with geographically based names such as Hillview Commons, Swiftwater Commons and Riverbend as construction proceeds.
On timing, the staff member said the office anticipates beginning site work — “dig dirt” — in 2025 and that the local team has waited roughly 18 months for state information needed to advance the project. The official added that a communication plan from the state housing agency will be distributed to staff and partners when available.
Council members and staff discussed construction costs for design and drawings; the staff member noted more than $1 million had been spent on design work to date. Questions about the project schedule, required amenities and funding sources were raised but specific funding breakdowns or funding sources (federal, state, local, or private) were not provided during the discussion.
Council members voiced general support and asked staff to return with further details as they become available.
The conversation took place during the council’s general business discussion prior to the evening’s resolution votes.
