Sharon
Sharon Ridge housing improvements completed
By SHAW ISRAEL IZIKSON
10/02

SHARON — Renovations have been completed at Sharon Ridge, the affordable housing complex located on Sharon Station Road.

The buildings, which currently house 40 residents in 20 apartments, were first opened in 1992.

The population of the complex is a mix of young and old, individuals and families. It is owned and operated by the Sharon Housing Authority, which is chaired by Mike Silverman.

“Ever since it opened, Sharon Ridge has helped both young families and older people to obtain affordable housing, because rent is charged based on income,” Silverman said.

“The renovations are very important because, after 16 years, there was some  serious wear and tear on the buildings that needed to be addressed.”

Silverman said improvements include: new flooring, closet doors and refrigerators. Outside, new storm doors, sidewalks and steps to front doors have been added and improved.

“We also had upgrades to the plumbing that have needed to be addressed for quite some time,” Silverman said. “There was a water tank that distributes water to the apartments that needed work.”

Silverman said that the renovations were completed by various companies in the area, with each project put out to bid.

“We received at least three bids for each project,” Silverman said. “I think that we all got some very favorable results out of the renovations.”

Building Management Agent Charlie Snyder mentioned some additional plumbing issues that were addressed.

“Some of the toilets in the apartments had black residue from heavy magnesium in the water,” Snyder said. “We just installed a chlorination system analyzer and water softener to fix this problem. We also have all-new porches on the apartments that were constructed with composite board, which will last for many years.”

Two additional projects, including installations of a new 12-by-14 foot shed and a playground swingset, should be completed by the end of the year, Snyder said.

Silverman said the Housing Authority is currently talking to local business and community leaders about possibly expanding Sharon Ridge.

“Sharon Ridge has been one of the most positive additions to the community, and one that I think everyone appreciates,” Silverman said.



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