Cleveland Heights, a city on the move towards increased housing diversity, is shaking hands with National Church Residences (NCR) in a move to transform a once-hallowed church space into contemporary senior lodgings. With a $22 million commitment, NCR is set to turn the old Universalist Unitarian Church on Lancashire Road, plus two parking lots, into a 71-unit affordable housing development, as per the details shared in an official announcement by the City of Cleveland Heights.
Mayor Seren, keeping an eye on the city’s growth, expressed a sentiment that aligns with city goals, "A thriving Cleveland Heights means that our City government must continue to pursue opportunities to increase density and diversify housing options for all residents and the various phases of their lives," according to a press release from the city. The partnership with NCR, who are no strangers to the affordable housing game, owning and managing over 360 communities, aims to create units that cater to individuals earning 30 to 80 percent of the area's median income where they can age with grace.
In an agreement that reflects the city’s hands-on approach to senior housing, NCR is set to purchase the tagged properties for $500,000 – a move ushering in constructing a four-story accessible apartment complex complete with elevators, a fitness center, and a bevy of useful amenities. A part of the purchase fee, namely $306,000, is being credited back for constructing public and permit parking spaces, necessary conveniences imaginable for seniors, reported the same press release. This project falls in step with another, the Nobility Court, poised for a 2025 construction date on Noble Road, collectively anticipated to enrich the landscape with more affordable senior housing options.
Assistant Director of Economic Development, Brian Anderson, noted the balance in the city's housing strategy, "The city has led a number of high-end market rate developments in last few years," he told the City of Cleveland Heights press release, “This is a city-participated project supporting affordability, building denser neighborhoods and offering new housing choice across the spectrum of price points. Plus, this is a location close to Coventry Road; it has shops, a grocery store, transit, and the library in proximity.” Ensuring the residents maintain a connection with the city’s heartbeat, access to daily essentials makes the development not just a place to stay but a nexus to community life.
Initial community intros were made last November at Coventry Library, where over thirty individuals showed up with interest piqued. As we advance, NCR's got their work cut out as they prep for Ohio's Low Income Housing Tax Credits, another public input session, and the march through the city’s Planning Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Architectural Board of Review. The City of Cleveland Heights press release detailed their roadmap. In this pursuit, Cleveland Heights continues its commitment, not just to housing, but to the idea that its residents have a place to call home, no matter the season of their life.
