Mayor Bart Peterson and Rev. John Thomas, President of CAGI, Celebrate the Ribbon Cutting of Franklin School Apartments

Community Action of Greater Indianapolis Opens Doors to Seniors Seeking Affordable Housing

Turner and Trotter Construction Complete 10 Month Renovation of Historic IPS School #36

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - December 17, 2003 - In March of this year construction crews began the demolition work that would turn historic IPS School #36 at 28th and Capitol into 48 apartments for seniors seeking affordable housing.  Community Action of Greater Indianapolis (CAGI) spearheaded the effort in order to meet the needs of residents in the community who are less advantaged.  The Rev. John Thomas, president of CAGI, said, "We expect Franklin School Apartments to fill an important and growing need in this part of the community." There is such a need, Thomas said, that area residents began contacting the CAGI office before the renovation began to inquire about the availability of apartments.

"The Franklin School Apartments is a prime example of how we can reclaim vacant buildings in our neighborhoods and transform them into community assets," Mayor Bart Peterson said.  "I am very pleased the city had the opportunity and the means to support this project that will provide dozens of seniors in the neighborhood a good place to call home."

The city of Indianapolis provided $525,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the project.

CAGI Special Projects Coordinator Ed Tipton observed that the near-north side neighborhood has an increasing number of senior citizens. "For many in this age group, maintaining a house is difficult. These people are looking for housing options to meet their changing needs. There are several people in this age group within a one- or two-mile radius of the school building but not enough suitable housing. We believe the Franklin School Apartments project will go a long way toward meeting this need." Tipton added that the location is ideal, close to bus lines, medical facilities and stores.

Thomas and Tipton explained that they spoke with area residents before moving ahead with the project, not wanting to proceed if neighbors objected. "They all liked the idea very much and applauded our efforts," Tipton said.

The building provides 28 one-bedroom, 12 two-bedroom and 8 efficiency apartment units.  Persons 55 and older who meet certain income guidelines are eligible for residency, and rent is commensurate with the tenant's ability to pay.

"In pursuing this project," Thomas continued, "we wanted the highest quality construction work so we selected the Turner/Trotter team. We are very pleased to be working in partnership with two companies who share our dedication to the betterment of the community."

"We understand the need for additional affordable housing in this community," said William C. Blank, president of Turner's Indiana office, "and we're pleased to be able to help fill this need. We believe this segment of the community deserves quality housing. And we are delighted to be able to help bring this wonderful old building back to life and put it to good use in the community."  He added that construction crews worked hand in hand with the architect, a3 design, and the City of Indianapolis to meet historical preservation requirements.