STAR CITY, W.Va. — PACE Enterprises plans to break ground for the one-of-a-kind independent housing facility June 26 at 10 a.m. The 12-unit affordable, independent housing facility for individuals with disabilities will be located at 420 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Star City, the original location of Pace Enterprises.
In January of this year Pace received a $750,000 grant through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh for what is described as an important part of the Vision 2025 program.
Statistics show West Virginia has the highest percentage nationwide of people living with disabilities, at 25 percent, and he expects the twelve units to fill almost immediately. At PACE Enterprises, as many as 150 clients participate in the community employment program.
The proposed design is about 9,000 square feet and includes two floors, the first reserved for residents and the second designed to house the facility manager of the property. Each room will include basic amenities, community living spaces, and an open kitchen in the center so those living in the facility can converse with fellow residents.
“There will be a resident manager, but it won’t be like an assisted living facility,” Director of Marketing and Development Joe Lefkay said. “If someone needs care, they’ll have to continue their own care, but it is open to not just Pace clients but anyone with a disability.”
Greg Morris, CEO of PACE said, “There are so many individuals to thank, but I feel the need to mention the members of the Widmer and Prete families who initiated the project by gifting the property to our organization. With the help of them, our fundraising efforts, additional donations and grants, and the FHLB Affordable Housing Program grant we will be able to provide the community a much-needed resource.”
The project is expected to cost about $3.2 million and could take 18-months to build.