Major new senior complex about to open off Waterman Ave.

SAN BERNARDINO -- Tony Theodorou has been an integral part of the process, but sometimes even he has trouble believing it.

Just 10 months ago, local dignitaries were on hand for the groundbreaking. A pastor blessed what was an empty dirt lot.

But last week, the president of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association's (AHEPA) local chapter stood on the same ground and took in a totally different view: A nearly complete, three-story apartment building for seniors, flush with modern amenities like open balconies and communal areas.

"Just last year this was just dirt," Theodorou said with a smile. "Now this is a real ruby for the city, a first class senior housing facility for all of us to be proud of."

The $12.6 million building, a Y-shaped complex designed to draw people together into the common community rooms, workout rooms, library and computer lab, is a triumph of good planning and direct government investment, Theodorou said.

The one-bedroom units feature spacious bathrooms and 540 total square feet, along with special pull-string emergency units in each room.

After reviewing and accepting AHEPA's application, the Department of Housing and Urban Development marked $11.3 million for the project, while the city's Economic Development Agency chipped in another $1.3 million.

"The local EDA was really crucial in this," Theodorou said, noting that the agency scooped up the property initially, allowing AHEPA time to come up with a plan. "The city is very supportive of quality senior housing."

The 90-unit building is expected to be a competitive draw because of the scant supply of subsidized senior housing in the city, said George Theios, AHEPA's legal counsel. Theios estimated the city needs at least 800 more senior units.

On Oct. 2-3, AHEPA Management Company, which will manage the building, will accept applications from perspective seniors at Unified Baptist Church at 1093 E. Base Line. The key eligibility requirement is being age 62 or older, and under agreement with HUD will pay no more than 30 percent of adjusted gross monthly income in rent.

The complex is also well-situated, Theodorou said. The surrounding neighborhood is lined with aging houses, but a bus stop sits directly in front on Gilbert Street and St. Bernardine's Hospital just four blocks away. The Perris Hill Senior Center is also nearby.

In December, Mayor Pat Morris attended the groundbreaking and hailed the project as an "asset for this city."

On Monday, his son and chief of staff said it was good to see the project coming to swift fruition.

"This is a win for the city in several respects," Jim Morris said. "We get high quality housing for a population that really needs it, and we get it in an area where it will be a real asset."

Morris said the complex would be at least the fourth senior housing project to come on line since the mayor took office, with two more in the pipeline.

"I expect were going to see more of this as our city continues to mature," Jim Morris said. "The need for affordable senior housing is critical."

The tri-colored facade, with an atrium-like vaulted balcony perched over the entrance, is a marvel in the community, Theodorou said.

Construction and landscaping should be complete by mid-November, with move-ins before year's end.

The facility is not only the largest in AHEPA's portfolio of more than 70 nationwide, but also the first on the West coast, Theodorou said.

Walking around an unfinished unit last week, with work-site dust and fresh paint permeating the air, Theodorou said the building could be the start of something more.
"We hope other local AHEPA groups will sponsor projects like this," he said. "They are needed."