A new development has placed seniors just steps away from one of New York City’s treasured landmarks.
Built on land owned by and adjacent to the New York Botanical Garden, 2850 Webster Avenue provides 188 affordable apartments in the Bronx. As part of the unique setting, residents receive complimentary membership to enjoy the 250-acre grounds.
“It’s a building for the community and its seniors,” says Reia Tong, associate vice president at Douglaston Development. “There are so many elements that you would want in a community. It provides seniors the opportunity to age in place and stay connected.”
The new development features studio and one-bedroom apartments for residents 62 and older and earning up to 60% of the area median income. The units are covered by a project-based Section 8 contract, so seniors pay just 30% of their income for rent. Approximately 57 units are reserved for individuals who previously experienced homelessness, and on-site social services are offered by Fordham Bedford Community Services.
In addition to providing much-needed affordable housing, 2850 Webster Avenue is tackling another issue—access to fresh food. The developers made sure to retain a longstanding grocery store that has been on the site. As a result, the development’s ground floor is the new home for Cherry Valley Marketplace, which provides both residents and the greater community access to food options in an area that has been underserved by fresh food grocery stores.
The $93.5 million development is the first of two phases. Douglaston Development is planning to build a nearby 277-unit affordable housing development for families with additional grocery space.
