BRA Approves Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly

Jewish Community Housing for the Elderly (JCHE) received approval to construct 61 apartment homes on its Chestnut Hill campus. These would enhance the existing 700-unit campus, which provides reasonably-priced housing for seniors. Residents will have immediate access to a senior-specialized fitness center, uniquely equipped computer center, multi-lingual library, auditorium, recreational space and additional amenities.

JCHE will apply universal design principles to the greatest extent possible so that all residents can age independently in their own apartments. The project is also designed to assist other special populations. Through a partnership with Hearth, seven units will serve formerly homeless seniors, and a 5-unit studio grouping for aging adults with lifelong disabilities will be developed in conjunction with Jewish Children & Family Services.

The project also includes approximately 3,500 square feet of retail and commercial space to be occupied by a tenant who will serve both the 900 residents in JCHE’s Brighton community and their neighbors along Chestnut Hill Avenue. By offering a neighborhood-friendly commercial use on the first floor of the new building, JCHE hopes that seniors on its campus will have an opportunity to engage with members of the surrounding community.

• Total Project Cost: $22.8 million
• Total SF: 56,172
• Construction Jobs: 40

Submitted by the Boston Redevelopment Authority.