New senior affordable housing to address a growing need for an aging population.
Partnering with the Portsmouth Senior Center, Union designed the three-story Ade Bethune House & Portsmouth Senior Center, currently under construction in Portsmouth, Rhode Island and making good progress.
Rising housing costs and limited affordable rental options have left many low- and moderate-income households struggling to find stable housing in Portsmouth and surrounding communities. Seniors and individuals with disabilities face particular challenges due to slow construction rates and the need for on-site services.
The Ade Bethune House provides 54 affordable apartments for seniors in a community that needs housing for its aging population. Every unit is designed for affordability in both initial and lifecycle costs, using low-maintenance materials throughout. Units incorporate universal design principles including equitable use, flexibility, intuitive design, clear information, error tolerance, low physical effort, and appropriate sizing for accessibility.
The site plan minimizes paving and impervious surfaces to maximize open and green space for residents. Three types of green infrastructure are incorporated: stormwater runoff management, rain gardens, and bio swales.
The Ade Bethune House & Portsmouth Senior Center will help Portsmouth progress toward its goal of 10% affordable units, increasing the town’s affordable housing stock from 2.75% to 3.45%.
