Residents of a new complex made for seniors with hearing impairments were able to move into their new housing July 15, amongst family members, moving trucks and helpers who came to see the opening of the first complex of its kind in Arizona.
Apache ASL Trails, located near the corner of Apache Boulevard and Price Road, is a new development that contains 75 one and two bedroom apartments.
The complex was designed for senior citizens, with impaired hearing, and allows for deaf, deaf-blind, and hard-of-hearing individuals to live an independent lifestyle with design features and services to help them communicate with others.
Design features of the complex include flashing light signalers for the phones and doorbells, a videophone equipped lobby, and videophone hookups in every department.
The development also has space for future retail shops and a medical facility.
Residents will also be able to access specialized services that are going to be provided through the Valley Center of the Deaf.
The development is a partnership between Arizona Deaf Senior Citizens Coalition and Cardinal Capital Management, according to Cardinal Capital.
Cardinal Capital Management, Inc, is a Wisconsin-based company that provides affordable housing for low and moderate-income households.
According to the development’s website, tenants of the development are able to have affordable living with rent between $500 and $900 a month, with utilities included in rent payment.
Everyone who works at Apache ASL Trails is able to communicate in American Sign Language, helping the development to be sign friendly.
Apache ASL Trails is also located near the METRO light rail and bus routes, making it easy for residents to access public transit.
Apache ASL Trails is the first development in the Southwest and the 14th in the nation that is intended specifically toward seniors with impaired hearing.
According to the Arizona Department of Housing, the housing is marketed toward those who fall below the 60 percent median income.
Reach the reporter at katherine.torres@asu.edu
