The groundbreaking for a nearly $29 million improvement project at the River Terrace housing development in Benton Harbor has been held as residents prepare for the work. Officials from the state and MHT Management on Tuesday announced the major rehabilitation project. MHT Regional Manager Steve Cook told us what’s coming up.
“Basically, it’s a $28 million renovation, complete,” Cook said. “They’re going to be doing everything from roofing to flooring inside the units, cabinets, countertops, tubs, lots of exterior stuff, improvements to the exterior of the building, improvements to the high rise, the HVAC.”
Cook said MHT has operated the 270 unit development for about 20 years. It’s received a $28.8 million loan from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority for the work.
“Just because it’s affordable housing, it should be quality housing and that’s our belief. We’re going to be sure that our residents are getting the best renovations that we can do and make them proud of where they live.”
River Terrace Drive consists of both a high-rise and townhomes. The 10-story senior high-rise building includes of 150 apartments and 120 multifamily townhome units. In all, River Terrace has about 600 residents. Cook said the construction will begin in the next two weeks and take about a year.
