Communities First Initiative Proudly Celebrates the Grand Opening of The Place at Sayreville: A Transformative Step in Affordable Housing
LAWERENCEVILLE, NJ — Communities First Initiative (CFI) is thrilled to mark a significant milestone alongside our valued partner, Community Investment Strategies Inc. (CIS), with the official grand opening of The Place at Sayreville. This visionary development, a joint venture between CFI, CSI, the Borough of Sayreville, and the Sayreville Economic and Redevelopment Agency, signifies our unwavering commitment to providing affordable housing solutions that empower communities. With a total of 89 units, this income-restricted community offers brand-new one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, setting a new standard for accessible and sustainable living.
What sets The Place at Sayreville apart is its innovative design and unwavering focus on individuality. Each unit features its own private entrance to the outside, creating a unique sense of home that is unparalleled in the affordable housing landscape. This remarkable feature not only promotes a sense of pride and ownership among residents but also fosters a strong community spirit, where neighbors can connect organically while enjoying their personal space.
The development journey encountered its fair share of challenges, including the management of nearly 14 acres of wetlands. To ensure the safety and security of residents, the project required the construction of retaining walls to protect against potential flooding. This meticulous planning and attention to detail exemplify CFI's dedication to creating a secure and sustainable living environment for its residents.
The Place at Sayreville, with total development costs of nearly $26 million, became a reality through a strategic financing blend, including 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), NJHMFA Permanent Mortgage, and Developer Equity. This collaborative effort underscores the potential of public-private partnerships in addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in communities like Sayreville.
Sustainability is at the core of this development, evident in the Energy Star® Certified apartments, featuring modern layouts with elegant appointments. Luxury vinyl flooring throughout the units adds a touch of sophistication and durability to the living spaces, while Energy Star® Certified appliances, such as refrigerators, range hoods, stoves/ovens, and dishwashers, help minimize the community's carbon footprint.
Moreover, the development's dedication to safety is apparent with the installation of fire suppression systems, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors in each unit, ensuring residents can enjoy peace of mind in their homes.
Beyond the apartments, The Place at Sayreville offers a beautifully decorated community room with on-site management staff, providing residents with exceptional service and fostering a sense of belonging. The community's 24-hour emergency maintenance team, full-time property manager, and superintendent further enhance the living experience, ensuring that residents' needs are met promptly and efficiently.
With a focus on inclusivity and comfort, The Place at Sayreville is a 100% smoke-free and pet-free community, ensuring a serene environment for all residents.
In conclusion, the grand opening of The Place at Sayreville represents not only the realization of a remarkable affordable housing project but also the embodiment of a shared vision for a vibrant and inclusive community. Communities First Initiative's unwavering dedication to excellence, sustainability, and community engagement shines through every aspect of this venture. As residents move into their new homes with pride and excitement, The Place at Sayreville stands tall as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovative thinking in shaping a better future for all.