The Hudson Companies, Hermitage, PA, was awarded funding by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency for Evans Square, a 40-unit senior housing (62+) development located in Conneaut Lake, PA. The Hudson Companies, founded in 1977 by President and Managing Principal John M. Hudson, is a diverse real estate development and investment firm with holdings and development operations in multiple states and disciplines. Hudson has long been a leader in general construction, real estate development, and institutional investments since its founding. Second generation Principal Tyler M. Hudson has led the efforts for new developments with a pipeline of four PHFA projects to be delivered throughout Pennsylvania.
With this award, Hudson will direct the tax credit syndication for Evans Square.
Evans Square has been positioned to nurture the ever-changing senior lifestyle and address the demand for affordable senior housing in the Conneaut Lake area. The development will feature a generous community room, a wrap-around porch with an exterior fireplace, and spacious independent apartments. A design focus of environmental-friendly building features, which is a cornerstone feature of Hudson developments, will include everything from a rainwater harvesting system to energy-efficient controls that influence the ever-enhancing green technology.
The competitive PHFA application process allowed just 39 of the 111 applicants across the Commonwealth to receive funding awards. Hudson recognized that the competitive nature of funding meant there needed to be more than just mortar and siding to Evans Square. This spurred the inaugural Evans Square Innovation Center, which offers an innovative health and wellness curricula joint ventured with Thiel College, Allegheny College, and Primary Health Network. The program will offer educational enrichment programs by Thiel College, where residents can virtually audit coursework. Allegheny College students will have the opportunity to provide volunteer services through the Allegheny Gateway Civic Engagement program. Primary Health Network has committed health coaches to serve as health ambassadors for the active senior lifestyle.
Community leaders have recognized the need for affordable senior housing in the Conneaut Lake region, including Senator Michelle Brooks of the 50th District who stated “It was such a privilege to assist with this project as I have such admiration for our seniors. From raising us, to serving our country and building our neighborhoods, they have diligently laid the foundation for future generations’ success. I strongly believe it is so important that our seniors are able to remain close to their families and continue to live in their communities”.
The project is slated to start construction in the spring of 2017. Development Coordinator Kelley Coey said, “Evans Square will be located within the borough’s Revitalization Project area and will offer residents pedestrian- friendly access to all of the borough’s amenities.”