The Gardens at Penfield Square

Home Leasing and Episcopal Senior Life Communities (ESLC) worked in conjunction to develop a property with a wide range of options for seniors - independent, supportive, assisted and memory care - in a thriving suburban community outside of Rochester that had not seen the development of affordable housing development in several decades. Approximately 114 affordable apartments were developed and are owned and managed by Home Leasing. These units are available to households at 50% and 60% of Area Median Income (AMI), and 40 are designated as permanent supportive housing for frail elders with support services from ESLC. ESLC has also developed 70 units of assisted living, including memory care units adjacent to the independent living. An enclosed connection attaches the buildings so that residents can benefit from programs and services provided at either community, supporting their ability to age in place. Two commercial outparcels provide opportunities for complimentary retail, medical and/or community services.

The project is located on 8.4 acres that was rezoned to help realize the Town of Penfield's vision to create a true mixed-use district. The site also incorporates a traditional village square, complete streets, and bicycle/pedestrian connectivity. The site is adjacent to the Eastside YMCA, a 20,000-member facility that includes a bustling senior center, robust Silver Sneakers programming. and health care facilities.

Light-filled units will include full kitchens with dishwashers, central air-condition, in-unit storage, and private balconies.  The community will also include ADA-accessible units, community room, fitness center, and laundry facilities. Home Leasing communities welcome pets and encourage community gardens.  Utilities are included in the rent.

The independent living will include 114 one and two-bedroom apartments with rents from $650 to $950 – 54 units at or below 50% of AMI and 59 at or below 60% of AMI.

ESLC has applied to the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative for funding to provide supportive services to 45 households with frail elders who require assistance to remain in permanent housing.  In partnership with Medicaid-Managed Long Term Care Plans and others, ESLC will identify elders with very high use of Medicaid services, who have the potential for significantly reduced use, if they reside in a stable, supportive environment with access to the appropriate health and social services.

Local approvals and PILOT were awarded in the Summer of 2018; construction began in the Spring of 2019; overall project completion is anticipated for Spring of 2021 with the independent living apartment building completion early 2021. 

2023 Income Limit 60%

2023 Income Limit 50%

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