Trenton Will Transform School Into Senior Housing
The Trenton Housing Authority plans to open 107 affordable apartments for local seniors by the fall of 2028.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Eldercare
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The Trenton Housing Authority will convert the former Trenton Junior One Middle School on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard into an affordable housing complex for seniors. Supported by $54.3 million in state funding, the project will begin construction in December 2026.
Why it matters
This project aims to provide secure housing for low-income seniors while simultaneously fueling neighborhood revitalization efforts in Trenton. By repurposing a vacant school, the initiative addresses critical affordability gaps for residents aged 62 and older.
The development features 107 one-bedroom apartments for residents 62 and older earning 60% or less of the area median income. Construction is estimated to span 25 months.
The players
Trenton Housing Authority
This local government agency oversees the development and management of affordable housing units for residents of Trenton.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority
This state-level organization provides financial support and resources to foster economic growth and community development across New Jersey.
PRC
This organization serves as the development partner for the Trenton Housing Authority on the Choice Junior One housing project.
The details
Named Choice Junior One, the four-story facility will house a daycare center and commercial space alongside resident amenities like a fitness room and walking paths. The Trenton Housing Authority and its partner, PRC, will provide on-site youth education and workforce development services.
Timeline
Permanent financing was approved by state officials on September 3, 2026.
Groundbreaking for the facility is scheduled for December 2026.
The complex is projected to be ready for residents in fall 2028.
Roadmap
This development reflects the growing trend of adaptive reuse, where municipalities convert decommissioned school facilities into multi-use residential spaces. By repurposing legacy infrastructure, cities like Trenton are curbing blight while meeting urgent demand for specialized housing.
Eligible seniors in Trenton will soon gain access to housing designed specifically for their needs with on-site amenities like fitness facilities. This project will also provide new commercial space and daycare services for the surrounding North Trenton neighborhood.
The takeaway
This development demonstrates how repurposing underutilized public buildings can effectively serve the housing needs of an aging population. Residents should monitor local public notices to prepare for future application windows for these new units.
What happens next
Construction is scheduled to commence in December 2026, with the development expected to open for occupancy in fall 2028.
Further reading
Find more information on local housing initiatives on the Trenton Eldercare page.
Live Poll
Do you support converting former school buildings into affordable housing in your community?
