TOWN OF CICERO – Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the completion of Monarch Commons, a 50-unit affordable housing development for seniors in the Onondaga County town of Cicero. The energy-efficient development includes 15 supportive homes for veterans experiencing homelessness.
“With companies like Micron moving in, Central New York and Onondaga County are poised for growth and need new housing of all types to retain the region’s diverse population and provide new opportunities for the future,” Hochul said. “Monarch Commons will give seniors and veterans a safe place to live in the communities they love while enjoying the benefits of our expanding economy.”
According to as press release from the governor’s office, Monarch Commons complements Hochul’s $25 billion comprehensive housing plan that will create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.
Monarch Commons comes in advance of the development of the largest semiconductor fabrication facility in the history of the United States by Micron in Onondaga County’s neighboring town of Clay. A diverse supply of housing is needed to accommodate Central New York’s anticipated growth resulting from the monumental investment of up to $100 billion over the next 20 years at Micron.
The development consists of a single two-story building with 48 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments. All apartments are affordable to households earning at or below 60 percent of the area median income.
Fifteen of Monarch Commons’ apartments are reserved for veterans who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. These individuals have access to on-site supportive services provided by Soldier On, a national organization specializing in supporting veterans. Services and rental subsidies are funded by the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative and administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
Monarch Commons adheres to energy efficiency and green building standards required under the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s New Construction – Housing Program (Tier 3) and the project achieved LEED certification. Other energy efficient features include LED lighting, low flow plumbing fixtures, continuously operating bath fans, and all Energy Star or equivalent appliances, equipment, lighting, and fixtures.
“Today, we unite in celebration as we mark the grand opening of CDS Monarch Commons, right here in the heart of the Town of Cicero,” Cicero Town Supervisor Michael Aregano said. “CDS has been unwavering in its commitment to offering comfortable, energy-efficient apartments for our seniors and veterans. As we are well aware, the need for affordable housing for our seniors and veterans is a reality. We must persist in our collaborative efforts with County and State officials to extend this possibility to other communities across the state. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all those who dedicated their time, effort, and passion to turn this vision into a reality.”
Each apartment includes storage space, modern kitchen amenities and a patio or balcony. Bathrooms are equipped with grab bars and emergency pull cords to facilitate aging in place by the development’s senior population. Building amenities also include a lounge, community room, exercise room, and computer room. The building features a dedicated office space and separate meeting area for Soldier On, the supportive service provider to Monarch Commons’ veteran population.
State financing for the $15 million Monarch Commons included $12 million in federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and $2.5 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. NYSERDA provided $175,000 in support. Additional financing has been provided by the CDS Wolf Foundation and the Central New York Community Foundation. CDS Monarch is the developer and operator.
This project received praise from many local leaders and representatives.
“I strongly support the state’s $15 million investment in Monarch Commons in Cicero that’s bringing to market 50 units of affordable and supportive housing for seniors and veterans,” State Senator John W. Mannion said. “I commend and thank Governor Hochul for moving this project forward and for her partnership in creating vibrant communities that cater to the needs of all residents.”
“I am pleased to welcome the Monarch Commons development to Cicero,” Assemblymember Al Stirpe said. “This new housing not only expands access to shelter for our seniors and veterans in Onondaga County but also provides them with the supportive services they need to thrive in their new homes. This project is a bold step forward in our commitment to ensure that all New Yorkers have a roof over their heads, and I thank Governor Hochul for supporting this vital development. I will continue working hard every day to bring more safe and affordable housing to our neighborhoods.”