A new chapter in Austin's quest to address affordable housing and support elderly populations has commenced with the inauguration of Ekos City Heights, a housing development designated for residents 55 and over, nestled in the city's South side at 4400 Nuckols Crossing Road, Ekos City Heights is the brainchild of a synergistic partnership between McDowell Housing Partners and the Austin Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) as reported by the City of Austin.
Spanning 179 units specifically crafted for income-restricted tenants, Ekos City Heights assimilates one and two-bedroom lodgings within its domain, offering sanctuary to seniors, those with impairments, and persons transitioning from homelessness. According to a statement by the City of Austin, the units carry significance in more ways than one, not only as they offer affordable housing in the ever-tightening market but their purposeful integration of ten units dedicated to permanent supportive housing (PSH) shines as a beacon of stability for eligible individuals—furnished with long-term leasing options and vital supportive services.
Interim Director for the Housing Department, Mandy DeMayo expressed thrilling sentiments at the ribbon-cutting event, lauding the development for encapsulating the ethos of care for Austin's senior citizens and people experiencing homelessness, "These new residences highlight the value the City places on all Austin residents, including seniors and people experiencing homelessness," DeMayo articulated, as per the City of Austin's announcement.
The percentile allocation of the units revolves around varying levels of income, with 110 units earmarked for those earning at or below 50 percent of the median family income (MFI), 59 units for those at or below 80 percent of the MFI; and a compact cluster of 10 units accommodating occupants falling at or below 30 percent of the MFI, the structure also integrates 18 units designed for individuals with mobility challenges, and another 4 for residents with visual or hearing impairments, illustrating an ethos of accessibility and inclusivity at the heart of Ekos City Heights.
