News, The Birches at Chambers, The Birches at Esopus, The Birches at Saugerties
Birchez opens latest affordable senior housing community
Mid-Hudson News Network, Thursday, July 8, 2010
KINGSTON – It was very hot outdoors, but that didn’t deter the excitement Thursday during an open house for The Birches at Chambers, affordable senior housing complex.
Birchez Associates opened the newest addition to the complex, 66 apartments for those 62 and older earning 60 percent of the area’s median income, which $29,480 for a single person.
“We have rents that are down to $300 and $400 because we performing a public service,” said Steve Aaron, founder and managing partner of Birchez Associates.
The Birches at Chambers is located a few blocks off Albany Avenue in the Town of Ulster, and the Birches at Esopus opened about a year ago. The Birches of Saugerties was completed in 2006.
“This is an amazing facility that’s unparalleled in affordable senior housing. And without a doubt it needs to be replicated throughout the rest of the county,” said Hector Rodriguez, Ulster County legislator, deputy chairman of the economic development committee, which also includes housing.
Photo credit: Mid-Hudson News Network
Despite the sour economy, America’s baby boomers are rapidly aging into retirement, and Rodriguez said there must be a constant focus to ensure more facilities like this one are available.
Now is the time when we need the eye toward the future,” he said.
Clara McGill has live here for two months after moving from Wappingers Falls.
“It something I never expected,” she said. “For renting, I never dreamed of finding a place like this. I’ve met lots of friends. I think it’s going to be great.”