Construction begins on 80-unit affordable senior rental community in Phoenix

PHOENIX — The city of Phoenix is breaking ground on a new affordable housing community for seniors that will bring 80 rental homes to the Valley.

Helen Drake Village is located on city-owned land and next to Helen Drake Senior Center to create Phoenix’s first-ever “combined senior housing and services campus,” according to a Friday press release.

“Co-locating housing with an active senior center is a huge win for older adults in Phoenix,” Human Services Director Jacqueline Edwards said in the release. “Residents will have immediate access to programs and community support that enrich their daily life, and we’re excited to welcome them.”

The village’s three-story building with 80 rental homes will include 74 one-bedroom units and six two-bedroom units.

The units will be available at an affordable cost to adults at least 55 years of age making 30-60% of the average income in the area, the release said.

“Helen Drake Village represents the kind of strategic investment that strengthens Phoenix’s entire housing system,” Phoenix Housing Director Titus Mathew said. “By transforming city‑owned land into long‑term affordable housing, we are demonstrating how public resources can be used responsibly and creatively to expand options for seniors across Phoenix.”

District 5 Councilwoman Betty Guardado said the new housing community will “change lives,” and she’s inspired seeing the city investing in the seniors “who’ve given so much to this community.”

The village is the latest step in the Housing Phoenix Plan, which is redeveloping city-owned land to create affordable and mixed-income housing options. The construction of the Helen Drake Village is expected to be done in 2027, the release said.

“Helen Drake Village is a significant step forward in our commitment to provide Phoenix seniors access to affordable, high-quality housing with essential services,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “By combining vibrant homes with direct access to programs and activities, we’re building a community where residents can enjoy a stable, connected community.”

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