Gracie’s Village in Tempe, Ariz., includes 50 units of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for households earning 40, 50, and 60 percent of the area median income. It also is 100 percent accessible since a high percentage of residents have physical disabilities.
Gorman & Co. faced the most significant neighborhood opposition that it ever has experienced. The final product is a result of open discussion, meeting the standards of the neighborhood groups and maintaining its economic viability. Brian Swanton, Arizona market president, says one neighborhood opponent now attends ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings and "has become a fan of what we do."
The transit-oriented Gracie's Village is located within walking distance of the new Valley Metro Light Rail line, bus transit, and other services. The building also includes many green elements, including a solar photovoltaic system, high-performance windows and HVAC systems, thermal performance roofs, and Energy Star lighting.
The 13,000-square-foot Gracie's Thrift Store includes job training and placement services for the residents as well as the surrounding community.