New senior and disability apartments open in Allentown

A new apartment building for seniors and people with intellectual disabilities officially opened in Allentown on March 21, 2025. The 1528 West Apartments consist of 49 affordable units, including 35 one-bedroom and 14 two-bedroom apartments. The development cost $19 million and was built by HDC MidAtlantic and the Alliance of Building Communities, with support from the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center. The opening ceremony coincided with World Down Syndrome Day. HDC President and CEO Dana Hanchin noted that there were 235 applicants for the apartments, and 18 units are already leased. The goal of the apartments is to provide a supportive environment for independent living. Rents for a one-bedroom unit start at $225 per month. Bill Meltzer from the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center emphasized the importance of safe, affordable housing for inclusivity and community integration for people with disabilities. The development received support from various funding sources, including $1.9 million in tax credits from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Other contributors included local banks and government programs aimed at promoting affordable housing initiatives.