Housing Authority Provides Active Seniors with a Community to Call Home

Pinellas Heights, a new, 153-unit development for seniors and persons with disabilities, is described as “a blessing” by many in Pinellas County.

The Pinellas County Housing Authority (PCHA) transformed a once-vacant abandoned lot into a vibrant, thriving community center for seniors living on fixed incomes. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) was instrumental in the development of the property. “Without the LIHTC, we couldn’t have constructed Pinellas Heights,” said Debbie Johnson, PCHA’s executive director. Public-private partnerships were also key. Pinellas Heights was designed by Bessolo Design Group, Inc. and constructed by Brooks & Freund. Norstar Development USA, LLP was a co-developer with PCHA on the project.   
Pinellas Heights boasts of an impressive list of amenities including Energy Star appliances, walk-in showers, and emergency assistance pull cords in every apartment. It also features an onsite library, fitness center, and laundry rooms accessible on every floor, as well as internet access, touch-screen computers and scenic views. Pinellas Heights is also a smoke-free and pet-friendly property.

With the growing number of seniors in need of affordable housing in the area, it is clear that Pinellas Heights is a welcome addition to the community. Read what current residents are saying about their home:

• “I’ve waited three years for this, and it finally came. It’s a blessing. It’s like the Taj Mahal, seriously.”
• “One of the things we really appreciate was that this building was designed to accommodate any kind of handicap.”
• I think this is a fantastic completion of a dream. And as a long-term resident of Clearwater and Pinellas County, I appreciate the opportunity that this is providing for me and for so many other citizens to have beautiful safe housing for those of us on a low-income.”
• It gave the community such a sense of pride, particularly seniors that have low affordability.”

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