PROJECT UPDATES

The neighborhood excitement is building as construction progresses on the Reserve on South Martin, a mixed-income affordable housing development for seniors. Located in Mt. Healthy, the new community replaces blighted housing that previously stood on the site. 

Construction on the three-story complex is well under way. Both the north and west wings are scheduled to be "under roof" by the end of April, meaning the walls and roof will be constructed and standing. The core and central lobby will follow in the middle of May. Electricians and plumbers have been busy on the property as the HVAC is currently being installed. 

In addition, soil has been strategically removed from around the site. This allows construction and landscaping to begin at a lower grade, which will help the Reserve on South Martin blend better with the surrounding neighborhood.

"The overall design of the building took the neighboring homes into consideration", said CMHA's Strategic Development Officer, James Hubbard. "It will be a great asset to the Mt. Healthy community, not only because it fits with the aesthetics of the community, but also because it meets an important housing need for area seniors." 

According to Hubbard, there has already been a great deal of buzz about the spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments, ample storage and amenities the Reserve on South Main will offer, such as washer and dryer units. It is even possible the new complex will increase the property value of homes in the area. 

"When speaking with local residents, everyone seems really happy to see this new building taking shape and becoming part of the fabric of the community," Hubbard says.

The Reserve on South Martin is a $12 million retirement community for low-income seniors, an under-served population that often struggles to find affordable housing on a fixed income. The development is the result of a Neighborhood Stabilization Program grant to the CHCHC, a non-profit partnership CMHA, Hamilton County, the city of Cincinnati and several developers. Residents are slated to move in to the Reserve on South Main in late fall this year.

UPCOMING ITEMS OF INTEREST

The waiting list is expected to be opened in the Spring of 2012!

MISCELLANEOUS

Many Green features have been worked into the design of The Reserve and some of those features impact the methods used in construction.  Contractors have to be very conscientious in regards to construction methodology and implement certain Green Building protocols into their processes.