Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Celebrates the Renovation of Historic Windsor Building
Community support—and not just a little local curiosity—was clearly evident at the December 15 ribbon cutting of Union Square Apartments in Windsor.
A standing room only crowd of community residents, Governor Jim Douglas, local officials, and public and private funders joined Housing Vermont and the Rockingham Area Community Land Trust in celebrating the redevelopment of the historic NAMCO Block at the intersection of routes 5 and 44 in downtown Windsor. The extensive renovations reduced the number of apartments from 72 to 58, changed the unit mix by adding one-bedroom apartments; incorporated energy conservation measures; installed new windows, appliances, and fire alarm system; added an elevator; and created community space. Apartments range in size from 787 square feet for a one-bedroom to 1,298 square feet for a three-bedroom unit. Fifteen families will pay about 30% of their adjusted monthly income for rent through a rent subsidy from the Vermont State Housing Authority. Rents, which include heat and hot water, for the remainder of the apartments range from $680 for a one-bedroom to $935 for a three-bedroom.
In addition to the building improvements, RACLT and Housing Vermont have implemented a comprehensive property management plan which includes more thorough rental application procedures, an on-site management presence and community space for residents and area agencies. Rental information is available from Stewart Property Management, (802) 674-9455.