Now Open: Apartments for Seniors in Massachusetts Embrace Universal Design, Accessibility
2Life Communities, in partnership with the city of Boston and the Boston Housing Authority, celebrated the completion of the newly constructed J.J. Carroll House in Brighton, Massachusetts. The project, which began construction in October 2021, redeveloped 64 public housing apartments across multiple outdated buildings and created a new, modern and energy-efficient building offering 142 affordable apartments to older adults and persons with disabilities. The apartments are connected to 2Life’s existing 763-apartment Brighton campus.
The redevelopment includes 114 deeply affordable units supported by the Section 8 voucher program, 27 affordable units through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, and one unit for an on-site manager.
Embracing 2Life’s directive that no resident should ever be moved from their apartment due to changing mobility needs, the kitchens and bathrooms were designed with accessibility features and clearances including barrier-free entries through doorways and showers. Apartment entries have shelves for packages and deliveries to help prevent tripping hazards.
Interiors were designed with warm and neutral palettes to allow each resident to customize their space. Ceiling lights provide warm lighting for comfort and safety. All residences feature a living room, dining area, one or two bedrooms, a full kitchen, bathroom and adequate storage.
All common spaces and corridors have access to natural light and views to the outdoors. All interior and exterior pathways at J.J. Carroll exceed accessibility standards for stairs, ramps, handrails and sidewalks. All sloped surfaces have proper support, such as handrails, on both sides.
The new building includes a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly program operated by Element Care, providing holistic healthcare care. An expanded array of health and social services enables residents to remain in a community of their choosing with dignity, safety and as much independence as possible.
