Affordable Senior Housing Supporting Downtown Niles Revitalization
Berkshire–Niles is a 53-unit affordable senior housing community located at Third Street and Broadway in Downtown Niles, Michigan. Completed in 2019, the three-story development provides independent living apartments for adults 55 and older within walking distance of downtown amenities. Designed to complement the city's historic architecture, the building features gabled roofs, dormers, brick and siding exteriors, and underground parking. The project transformed several underutilized parcels into a prominent residential destination overlooking the St. Joseph River.
General Capital worked closely with local stakeholders, the Downtown Development Authority, and City officials to create a development appropriate for this important downtown gateway. Supported by municipal approvals, a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement, tax credit equity, permanent financing, and a Federal Home Loan Bank grant, the project represented one of Downtown Niles' first significant new residential developments in decades. Berkshire–Niles expands affordable senior housing opportunities while supporting neighborhood reinvestment and renewed confidence in the downtown market.
Key Themes
- Downtown revitalization transforming underutilized parcels into affordable senior housing.
- Historic architectural compatibility incorporating traditional rooflines, dormers, and brick materials.
- Public-private collaboration securing municipal support and specialized affordable housing financing.
- Independent senior living providing accessible housing opportunities for adults 55+.
- Strategic gateway location connecting residents with downtown amenities and riverfront views.
Results
- 53 affordable senior apartments completed in Downtown Niles in 2019.
- Three-story residential development constructed on assembled, underutilized downtown parcels.
- Underground resident parking introduced as an uncommon local housing amenity.
- Municipal PILOT approval secured alongside tax credit and grant financing.
- Major downtown residential investment delivered after decades of limited new development.