Syracuse Housing Authority Announces $25.9 Million Revitalization for Eastwood Heights Senior Apartments

The Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA) has reached a tentative agreement with the City of Syracuse to lease Eastwood Heights, marking a significant milestone in the preservation and expansion of affordable housing for seniors in the city. The $25.9 million revitalization project will modernize the facility and add four new affordable apartments, bringing the total number of units to 53.

Eastwood Heights, located at 1025 Sunnycrest Road, was originally built in 1922 as Eastwood Junior High School and converted into affordable senior apartments in 1989. Managed by the SHA, the complex currently houses 49 senior residents. The redevelopment project is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for current residents while ensuring long-term sustainability of the housing complex.

The tentative agreement, which is pending approval from the SHA Board of Commissioners and the Syracuse Common Council, includes a comprehensive plan to update the aging infrastructure of the building. Planned renovations will address overdue maintenance and bring essential property upgrades, such as energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, new windows and roofing, and the full electrification of the building. Apartments will be fully renovated, and a new community room and fitness center will be added to enhance residents' quality of life.

One of the major goals of the project is to make the building more accessible. In total, eight units will be dedicated to residents with mobility impairments, while three units will be designed to accommodate residents with hearing or vision impairments. A modernized secure entry system will be installed to improve safety for all residents. Additionally, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will be added, reinforcing SHA's commitment to sustainability.

“This project is a testament to our shared commitment to providing safe, modern, and affordable housing for seniors in Syracuse,” said SHA Executive Director William Simmons. He also expressed his appreciation for the collaboration among the SHA, the City of Syracuse, the Syracuse Common Council, and the residents of Eastwood Heights. “The voices of residents have been crucial in advancing this project,” Simmons added, recognizing the role of community advocacy in keeping the project a priority.

The revitalization project is being made possible by a 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) award from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (NYS HCR), which has been a key funding source for affordable housing projects across the state. With these funds, SHA plans to address long-overdue renovations, enhance energy efficiency, and ensure that Eastwood Heights remains a safe and affordable place for seniors to call home for many years to come.

Eastwood Heights residents have long been advocating for improvements to their living conditions, and their efforts have played a crucial role in pushing this redevelopment forward. Their activism, including direct outreach to public officials, has helped ensure that Eastwood Heights remains a top priority for both SHA and city officials.

The SHA says they look forward to beginning construction in the coming months, with the goal of completing the revitalization project in a timely manner to benefit residents and the broader Syracuse community.