THE PLAINS, Ohio — A new income-assisted housing complex for seniors had its first community viewing in The Plains on Tuesday. The Lofts on First, a 51-unit building on East First Street, is now open to renters ages 55 and older. Six units were occupied as of Tuesday afternoon, while several more applications have been filed.
Constructed by Woda Cooper in its third partnership with Hocking-Athens-Perry County Community Action, the $20 million complex offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for seniors who earn between 50% and 80% of the area median income. Based on data from the U.S. Census, that would be between $29,844 and $47,750.
Single-bedroom units cost $620 to $800 per month, while two-bedroom apartments are priced at $700 to $900 per month. Most units are one-bedroom. Monthly rates do not include utilities besides trash.
Jonathan McKay, vice president of development at Woda Cooper, told the Independent that his company applied to the state for its low-income housing tax credit in 2024.
“We knew that there was definitely a significant need for affordable housing for seniors,” said McKay, citing a company market study. He said that some seniors “may be looking to have a brand-new, high-quality rental unit instead of maintaining their own property.”
Plans for The Lofts on First sparked controversy last year, when more than 60 signatories petitioned against the planned construction of several affordable housing complexes on East First Street.
McKay told the Independent that such concern is not specific to The Plains.
“I think it’s not unique to this area that people will have questions and want to know what is going on,” he said.
Glen Crippen, the director of housing and community development at HAPCAP, told the Independent that partnering with Woda Cooper on this latest development aligns with the nonprofit’s mission to provide affordable housing.
In a statement to the Independent, HAPCAP referenced the need for more affordable housing in the area and welcomed the development of The Lofts on First.
“Rising costs can make it especially hard for seniors living on a fixed income to find a place they can afford,” reads the statement. “Our board supported the project because it aligns with HAPCAP’s mission to help meet the needs of our communities.”
Prospective tenants can contact the complex online or by calling 220-248-5622.
The Lofts on First is not the only nearby housing complex for seniors. Woda Cooper also maintains Beaumont Greene Senior Living on Della Drive in Athens. Meanwhile, Fairfield Homes operates Beasley Mill, an income-assisted housing complex for residents 62 and older, on Union Street.
When Beasley Mill’s HVAC system failed in late August, tenants were left without hot water or air conditioning for weeks amid high temperatures.
