Village at Brooklyn Pointe, a $1 million plus senior development, has recently broken ground in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Sterling Construction Corporation of Mishawaka, IN began the 20 units, 3 building, senior residency, in December 2008, and expect to be finished between August and September of 2009. The project is being built in collaboration with the Fort Wayne Housing Authority and Martin Riley Architects/Engineers.

This HUD project is the first HUD financed project for Fort Wayne in 20 years and will be Silver LEED Certified. LEED is the nationwide rating system of the U.S. Green Building Council. In a time where “green” building is becoming crucial to aiding the environment, Sterling Construction Corporation has incorporated many LEED environmental and economic performance standards. The Silver LEED Certification shall be achieved by using the following guidelines on this project: • Innovation & Design Process • Location & Linkages • Sustainable Sites • Water Efficiency • Energy & Atmosphere • Materials & Resources • Indoor Environmental Quality • Awareness & Education

This senior residency has apartment homes equipped with full kitchens including stove, range, refrigerator, and garbage disposal. Each home enjoys highly efficient HVAC, appliances, insulation, furnaces, windows, and an individual porch. Some of the homes are equipped with ADA standard handicap accessible showers to aid those residents with such needs.

Keeping with the eco-friendly green theme, there are numerous sidewalks for strolls outside, bike racks located throughout the community, and lush landscaping. The community is expected to offer some relief for those waiting for an affordable place to live in Fort Wayne. There are two similar projects planned over the next two years.

Village at Wheeler, a development in Macomb Illinois, has recently begun construction. The Sterling Construction Corporation of Mishawaka, IN began construction of 45 single-family homes, consisting of 3 and 4 bedroom ranch-style structures, and community clubhouse in the winter of 2008. The homes average 1,650 square feet with the community center expanding 2,129 square feet. The community will be built with wood construction with a brick and vinyl façade.

As a part of the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IDHA)Green Housing Initiative Program, the community will consist of environmentally friendly materials, recycled products, and efficient heating and air systems.

Some of the amenities include dishwasher, highly-efficient HVAC, ceiling fans, range, refrigerator, and garbage disposal. Outside, there will be covered parking and lush landscaping. A percentage of the Village at Wheeler homes will accommodate certain disabilities, ranging from handicap accessibility to sensory impairment.