Changing Landscape In Detroit Forces Many Seniors Out Of Apartment Housing

DETROIT (WWJ) - It's part of the changing face of downtown Detroit.

Newsradio 950's Stephanie Davis spoke with some residents who say they are being forced out of their longtime home to make way for development.

"I understand that changes do come," said Debra Miller, "but what I don't like is the fact that you push the seniors out."

Sixty-two year old Miller moved out of the Griswold Apartment building about a week ago.

The move comes after a new owner purchased the building and did not renew the contract to accept Housing and Urban Development (HUD) housing vouchers which Miller and dozens of others were receiving.

Tenants in all 129-units were given the one-year required notice to vacate. Miller moved to Parkview Apartments on Chene ahead of the March 31 deadline to move out.

"I love where I'm at now, so far it's okay," said Miller. "It's got the balcony out there, I've got a heck of a view."

Seventy-two-year old Theodore Gaines didn't want to move but likes his new place in the same building with Miller: "I just hope this building don't do like the old one there. Money talks, the bull walks," he laughed.

The new owner worked with a community group to help residents find new places, and they also covered some packing and moving expenses.

The building will now be called The Albert and reportedly a one bedroom apartment will run over $1,000 per month. Too steep for many residents and over the cap allowed by HUD for housing vouchers.