AMHERST, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Town of Amherst has launched an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Pilot Program.
The program offers eligible homeowners a forgivable grant of up to $125,000 for the development or rehabilitation of an ADU.
"ADUs are smaller, independent residential dwelling units located on the same lot as a single-family home, and can be an independent detached unit, or attached to or within the principal single-family home," a release says.
Town of Amherst resident Laura Flumerfeldt is thrilled to apply for the grant.
“I’m so excited about this pilot program,” Flumerfeldt says. “The ADU Program could allow me for the first time in two decades to be able to stay and remain in my home that I absolutely love."
Town of Amherst Councilwoman Jacqualine Berger tells 7 News reporter Yoselin Person she has been pushing for this initiative for a while.
“There’s a real need as people age and may need help or they might have a child with a disability who wants their own place as an adult child and this way they are available to help them,” Berger says.
Berger says this program will accept 16 homeowners and there's a list of requirements to be eligible:
- Homeowners earning under 100% Area Median Income are eligible
- Must maintain the property as their primary residence
- Guarantee the completed ADU is occupied or rented
- Keep the property in good condition for the full 10-year term of the forgivable grant award
“Seniors living on a fixed income who need some additional finances to maintain staying in their house and being able to age in place,” says Berger.
The Belmont Housing Resources WNY will be part of the construction bidding.
Those like Flumerfeldt say this initiative is a way to alleviate the financial hardships and other burdens.
“Actually allow people are the economies getting so out of reach financially to be able to perhaps remain in their personal homes that they know and love,” Flumerfeldt says.
Applications are being accepted for the first round of funding through January 19.
“It’ll be imperative that I personally get it, I would love to get it,” Flumerfeldt says. “But not me there's someone else that has a priority and trucks my situation which I'll be happy for them.”
Click here for the application.
