The City of St. Petersburg celebrated the completion of Bear Creek Commons, a new affordable senior housing development, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 12, 2024. Located at 635 64th Street South, this project is part of Mayor Kenneth T. Welch’s Housing For Opportunities All Plan and aims to address the increasing demand for affordable housing in the area.
Local leaders, project partners, and residents attended the event to mark this milestone. Among the speakers were Shawn Wilson, President and CEO of Blue Sky Communities; Mayor Kenneth T. Welch; and Vice-Chair Copley Gerdes. They all emphasized the collaborative efforts that brought this project to fruition and its significance for both the city and its senior citizens.
Mayor Kenneth T. Welch stated, “Affordable housing for all St. Petersburg residents is a top priority of my administration,” highlighting that stable housing contributes to strong neighborhoods and a thriving community. He described Bear Creek Commons as an example of successful public-private partnerships addressing community needs.
Construction began in June 2023, resulting in 85 energy-efficient rental units designated for seniors. The complex includes 47 one-bedroom and 38 two-bedroom apartments with rents based on income levels set at 30%, 60%, and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Bear Creek Commons offers various amenities such as a game room, art hall, gazebo, resident support services managed by Carteret Management, adult literacy programs, light housekeeping assistance, shopping help, and laundry services.
The $25 million investment was made possible through financing from entities like the Florida Housing Finance Corporation and Pinellas County Housing Finance Authority. The City contributed $6.6 million towards construction funding and property acquisition costs via the Penny Land Trust.
This development underscores St. Petersburg’s commitment to expanding affordable housing options for seniors while reinforcing community ties through strategic collaborations.
