East Ward Village draws crowd for opening

McCOOK, Nebraska -- A crowd of more than 50 gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony, Thursday morning, celebrating the official opening of the East Ward Village senior housing project. The $3.9 million housing project provides 15 apartment units in the main building, located on East Fifth Street, and an additional 12 duplex units with private garages. Occupants began moving into the units in February and 15 of the 27 units already have residents.

McCook Housing Agency Executive Director Rebecca Dutcher said Thursday's festivities drew a wonderful turnout, with more than 400 people attending the open house and touring the units throughout the day.

Nebraska State Rural Development Director Maxine Moul was among the many state and local housing representatives to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Moul said she had seen a number of old school buildings returned to the community to become an integral part and East Ward Village was another fine example.

Moul praised the efforts of financing partners, housing entities, contractors and architects, describing the project as another fine tool in addressing McCook's housing needs.

One bedroom units in the main building rent for $400 per month and two bedroom units rent for $475. Only three of the duplex units remain unoccupied, all of which are two bedroom and rent for $500 per month.

Income and age restrictions apply and handicap one and two bedroom units are available.

According to Dutcher, the application process takes approximately 30 days to qualify and interested parties are encouraged to contact the McCook Housing Agency at 502 Missouri Ave. Circle or call 308-345-3605.