Castleview Openhouse

12/10/2007

Builder shows off new housing for homeless
12/6/2007
By Edie Grossfield

Post-Bulletin, Rochester MN

Wearing hard hats and clear plastic safety glasses, business leaders and contributors from area organizations got their first close look Thursday at the Salvation Army's 33,000-square foot Castleview housing project.

The visitors walked through a maze of sawdust-covered hallways and peered up at the electrical and mechanical conduits not yet covered with ceiling tiles. They asked questions about the 32 permanent housing units for low-income and homeless people located on the four-story building's top three floors.

Leading the tour was Weis Builders' General Superintendent Barry Reeck, who said the building is about 75 percent complete. Construction began in April and it should be ready for occupancy in mid-February, said Salvation Army Business Administrator Doug Coop.

The Salvation Army conducted a capital campaign several years ago, to which many community businesses and individuals made three-to-four year financial commitments.

"So, this lets them see what their money is going for," said Dave Brandt, a member of the Salvation Army's advisory board.

In addition to the Salvation Army, a number of different agencies are providing services for the Castleview project, including Zumbro Valley Mental Health, Olmsted County and the Minnesota Workforce Center.

At 650 square feet, the apartment units are small but efficient, including one room, a small kitchen and small bathroom. They are designed for single occupants who will be allowed to stay at Castleview for as long as it takes them to become independent, Coop said.

Residents will receive support services to help them get on their feet, and the building will be secured and staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

In addition to the housing, the first floor will have a Good Samaritan Medical and Dental Clinic staffed with volunteer doctors and dentists.