To the editor:

According to a recent New York Times article, 10,000 people will turn 65 every day for the next 19 years. Housing options that provide thoughtful design and full accessibility for our aging population are not keeping up with this growing need.

In our community we see this trend. Many of our friends and neighbors are forced to leave their homes and beloved community for lack of accessible, affordable and quality senior housing. Many of these residents have lived in Cazenovia for decades, some were born here, some have farmed the land, others have made significant contributions by creating organizations and services to enhance our town. It is heartbreaking to see them leave when that is not their wish.

Our community now has an opportunity to support a potential senior housing project that will provide affordability, quality construction, thoughtful design, accessibility, visitibility and highly-rated management.

CRIS (Community Resources for Independent Seniors) has partnered with Housing Visions, a company with a stellar reputation. Their integrity, ability to work in partnership with communities, and green practices puts them far ahead of most housing companies. CRIS, which was created a decade ago to help seniors age in place, was very aware at the time through professional surveys and residents’ stories of the senior housing crisis.

Housing Visions is seeking annexation of acreage on Burton Street to potentially build affordable senior apartments. CRIS has explored many properties and met with various developers over the years. Recently, Housing Visions and CRIS reviewed 17 properties in the Cazenovia area and the Burton Street property owned by long-time Cazenovia resident Jim Burke appeared to be the most ideal in terms of location, safety and affordability.

We have communicated with CACDA, Cazenovia Preservation Foundation and CASA since it is important to work with our community partners who offer a wealth of expertise and experience.

Jean Shirley

CRIS Board