WASHINGTON–NCBA, one of the country’s oldest service organizations for low-income Older Americans, will unveil on November 13, the Carl F. West Senior Estates and Grandfamily Apartments—a sparkling $140 million, 179-unit housing complex, in the capital city’s Columbia Heights district.

Uniquely, 36 of the units will be reserved for so-called “grandfamilies”—older Americans who are rearing young relatives, usually grandchildren or even great-grandchildren. Many housing properties for elders don’t allow younger residents, often forcing older caregivers to search for affordable housing without such restrictions—a rare commodity—when children come to live with them.

“The need for safe, quality, affordable housing is epidemic, but it is pronounced among older people with limited incomes,” said Karyne Jones, President and CEO of NCBA. “Even those who can find it are often in a bind when they have to care for their grandchildren or other young relatives. We’re proud to offer some relief from that burden and thank the D.C. Housing Finance Agency for its foresight and support. Hopefully, this will be a model that other developers and agencies will follow. ”

Indeed, since the earliest signs of construction in 2022, NCBA’s housing division has been deluged with inquiries and applications from prospective tenants.

The complex features state-of-the-art energy-saving appliances; spacious floorplans; business, computer, and study lounges; hobby rooms; a library; a fitness center; and outdoor courtyards and playgrounds.

NCBA’s administrative offices will also be housed in the new complex, which abuts the organization’s Samuel J. Simmons Estates, a 174-unit facility that has served low-income area seniors since 1981.

The November 13 grand opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. at 1370 Harvard Street NW.

Visit ncbacfw.com for more information, including how to apply for tenancy.