A national developer has revised its proposal for a large housing and retail complex in central New York to include more reduced-price rental units.
If approved, the development would be the largest in Manlius Township in the past decade, syracuse net reports.
Dubbed “Twin Shores,” the project aims to address the area’s housing shortage and prepare for a projected increase in worker numbers due to Micron’s commitment to build a computer chip manufacturing plant nearby.
Illinois developer Twin Shores has proposed the 129-acre estate, which will include 300 apartments and townhomes. Manlius Township Supervisor John Deer and other officials have been working with developers to include more affordable housing options.
“We’re trying to get to that sweet spot,” Diehl told the media. “We wanted to have a huge affordable housing complex, but realized the developers couldn’t do it economically. We were looking for a percentage that the market could afford.”
While specific rental prices have yet to be determined, some of the residences will be designated as “workforce housing” for individuals earning about 80 percent of the area’s median income. This group typically earns too much to qualify for traditional affordable housing, but cannot afford full market rates.
The development will also include retail space and a possible addition of a cinema. Developer Twin Shores LLC is pursuing zoning changes to allow for denser housing on about 50 acres. The goal of the project is to create a pedestrian community with leisure areas, green areas and playgrounds. Plans include amenities such as pickleball and basketball courts, walking trails, and access to nearby South Pond for non-motorized water sports.
While rental prices have yet to be determined, the project aims to strike a balance between construction costs and affordable rentals, the outlet said.
The developer is in discussions with the Onondaga County Industrial Development Authority to consider possible tax breaks for the housing portion of the project. The retail portion of the project could include office and restaurant space, and a new cinema could be added. Discussions have also taken place about a new Manlius town hall, although no firm plans have yet been drawn up.
The proposal includes five four-story apartment buildings and eight townhouse-style buildings, including one-, two- and three-bedroom units.
Most units may have two bedrooms. The developer has previously worked on projects in 44 states, including various types of developments including movie theaters, retail spaces and senior living facilities.
— Ted Glazer
