Posey County Seniors Soon To Have Room With A View
By Pam Robinson
Mount Vernon residents can see for miles and miles down the Ohio River now with the old silos removed from the downtown park. The beautiful lighting and landscaping at the riverfront mark the way for walkers, joggers, dog lovers and their canine friends—all the young and young at heart, who enjoy nature’s artistry and stretching their legs a bit. When it’s time for a break, people may relax on a red bench or at a concert in the amphitheatre.
Activity abounds now at the Mount Vernon riverfront. By this time next year, area seniors will look out over this scene from the new senior housing development, known as “The Landing.” Construction is moving rapidly with the framework for the development expanding from week to week. Architect and developer Andrew Myszak confirms construction will be complete this December, and “The Landing” will be letting leases January, 2014.
Indeed, Myszak says a list exists already of twenty people expressing interest in the 46 apartments for seniors aged 55 and older. If more seniors want to be included on the list, they may call 812-886-0350.
Myszak states the apartments will consist of a mixture of 700 sq. ft. one bedroom units and 900 sq. ft. two bedroom units. All the rooms will be equipped with either a patio or balcony, several with a river view. All tenants may enjoy the rooftop terrace with an incredible river view in addition to the community room.
Rent will be based on income plus 1 percent of assets. In addition to rent, tenants will pay their own utilities, which are not subsidized. Myszak said the average rent will run approximately $400-$500 per month plus utilities.
Additional housing at “The Landing” includes 6 condos for sale at market rate. Myszak said a market study is being conducted right now to determine sale price. Four of the condos will feature two bedrooms while the remaining two will feature three bedrooms.
“The Landing” will also house retail establishments for the convenience of its tenants. Myszak commented that several potential retail businesses have expressed interest in locating at the complex. Time will reveal, soon and very soon, what additional amenities “The Landing” has in store.
In contrast, some Posey County seniors may prefer “a little bit country” when it comes to their dwelling. They will want to consider the new duplex apartments at Jacob’s Village, located on the Posey County and Vanderburgh County line, just east of Parker’s Settlement at 7400 Vienna Road, Evansville.
Jacob’s Village prides itself as “a place to call home.” For several years already, the village has provided a residential community for adults with functional disabilities. Now, the village has added a section of universal design, duplex style units, all featuring attached carports and private patios, with ground-level entry for seniors age 55 and older as well as adults with disabilities. Income restrictions apply with rents starting at $365 per month and going up to $510 per month.
Cheryl Kuchna, President and CEO of Jacob’s Village, says the apartments are filling up fast. The peaceful, semi-rural setting provides beauty in all seasons. At the same time, Jacob’s Village is only one mile west of the new University Parkway. Access to a wide range of services, including healthcare, and shopping is available within a matter of minutes.
Tenant applications are ready now for the 650 sq. ft. one bedroom units and 850 sq. ft. two bedroom units. Units come complete with Energy Star appliances, windows and doors, central air conditioning and gas furnace, Green Label Certified carpet, city water and wetland eco-friendly septic system.
Appliances include gas stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher. Electric washer and dryer hookup is available. Window treatments include mini blinds. All units feature a handicapped accessible bathroom, including a shower with a seat. Carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors are installed at each unit as well. Equally as important, METS Mobility Transportation and access to Dish Satellite are available.
If the new apartments fill up before someone has an opportunity to rent, additional housing is planned. Situated on 130 acres, Jacob’s Village wants to continue constructing housing for people with disabilities and older adults, eventually building affordable cottages and condos.
Kuchna invites area seniors and people with disabilities to tour the duplex style units at a second open house on Sunday, April 7, from 1-3 p.m. As at the first open house held on Sunday, February 17, Jacob’s Village staff and volunteers will be on hand to conduct tours and answer any questions about the apartment units. For more information, individuals may call 812-963-5198.
Whether they prefer city lights or country woods, Posey County’s aging population can be happy new rooms with a view are being constructed to meet their needs.
