Senior housing development christened in Franklin

Franklin — On a field left unused since the zinc mine closed in 1954, a six-story building of 95 one-bedroom apartments now stands. And on Thursday, The Franklin House — affordable senior apartments on the corner of Mill and Sterling streets — was officially opened. “Tenants have been moving in since August,” said Stephanie Stapinski, property manager. “While it is an Episcopal Community Development Inc. building, residency is open to all. Residents must meet income qualifications and there are four rent levels based on the applicant’s income level.” The apartments are identical except for the corner units on each level. All the apartments come with fully equipped kitchens. A communal laundry room is located in the basement level. At the official opening festivities Thursday, State Assemblywoman Alison McHose, State Sen. Steven Oroho, Robert Littell, Don Kobach of Sussex Bank and Franklin Mayor Paul Crowley gave brief speeches before cutting the ceremonial ribbon, Carol Stromek and her husband Jack Housman have been living in the building since Aug. 15. The couple relocated to The Franklin House after she became unable to climb stairs due to a knee problem. Moving into this elevator-equipped apartment building has made her life easier, she said. On top of that, “the building is beautiful and the residents are friendly,” said Stromek. “I feel lucky and privileged to be living here.”

By the numbers 6 stories tall (basement is below grade in front but above ground level in the rear as property slopes) 95 one bedroom apartments 94 rentals, 1 for the building superintendent) 600 square feet per unit 26 units rented