Char House displays $4.5 million renovation project
The Char House Highrise for the Elderly in Charleroi received a $4.5 million facelift, and a ceremony was held Wednesday to celebrate the improvements.
The project, which began in February 2023, included replacement of major electrical, plumbing and sanitary sewer systems; new common area flooring and painting, and renovations to the community room kitchen, which included a new refrigerator and range. Each apartment received new flooring, as well as renovations to the kitchens and bathrooms. New patio doors were installed, the public restrooms were renovated and the parking lot was paved.
Robert Griffin, executive director of the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Washington, said funding was secured through a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development loan.
“It is impossible to overstate the amount of planning, preparation, patience, cooperation, hard work and teamwork that goes into completing a renovation project like this,” Griffin said. “We take a great deal of pride in providing and maintaining quality housing for our seniors. We also provide amenities which create a vibrant community atmosphere for our residents.”
Michael Horvath, Pittsburgh field office director for HUD, touted the partnerships involved in getting the project done.
“It really does take a community to make this kind of investment,” Horvath said. “It’s inspiring to see this kind of work that’s enhancing the lives of over 100 individuals and families who live in Charleroi. It’s inspiring to know that these renovation projects also provided employment for numerous contractors that worked on it. It’s nice to see that money spent here in the local community. I think the residents are going to be very happy with all of the enhanced amenities.”
Char House was built in 1979 on the site of the former Charleroi Ninth Street School and is home to 104 residents.
Residents of Char House must be at least 62 years old or have a disability. Annual income limits cannot exceed $56,700 for an individual or $64,800 for two people.
Nick Sherman, chairman of the Washington County Commissioners, acknowledged all who worked on the project.
“There were so many people rowing in the same direction,” Sherman said. “An opportunity for your homes to be so nice is such a great asset in Washington County. One of the things we need very badly in Washington County is senior housing. It’s great that we have this high rise here in Charleroi where we can honor our seniors and give them an amazing place to live.”
Anyone interested in applying for residency at Char House may contact the property manager at 724-489-4445.