BELLEFONTE — Bellefonte hasn’t been whole for a few years since fires destroyed some of its oldest and most historic buildings, leaving some vacant lots and hollowed-out shells. Now, two of those properties are making a comeback.
Property Management Inc. is leasing out affordable apartments in the renovated Cadillac Building and the new Garman House, known collectively as the Bellefonte Mews.
“We are excited to bring these beautiful apartments to Bellefonte and fill a need for the community,” said Mary Adams, senior property manager for PMI. “According to all the news outlets, the whole county needs affordable housing, and we are ready to help.”
The Cadillac Building, at South Allegheny and East Bishop streets, was nearly destroyed when Christmas tree lights in one of the apartments caused a fire in 2009. The inside of the building has been completely redone, but the exterior facade, built in 1912 as a Cadillac dealership, remains intact. And with its high ceilings, large windows with views of downtown and spacious layout, the apartments should be very comfortable for new residents.
The new Garman House on East High Street began to move tenants in Nov. 1 across from the courthouse where the Hotel Do De and Garman Theater stood until they were destroyed by fire in 2012.
The 11 two- and three-bedroom apartments at the Cadillac Building, along with the 21 one- and two-bedroom apartments at the Garman House, are designated as workforce housing with income restrictions divided on whether the renter makes 20, 50 or 60 percent of the typical income in the area. These percentages will determine the amount of the rent, said Adams.
“We are looking for people who are lower income, working, and are in need of a nice affordable place to live in a beautiful building, with a great location and amenities,” said Adams.
Those amenities include a laundry room, game room, fitness center and large community room on the ground floor of the Cadillac Building with a view of downtown Bellefonte. The Garman House residents will be able to use these features at the Cadillac Building. Parking is also included in the rent, and the buildings are energy efficient, so Adams expects the energy bills to be on the low side.
“This is such a great location. You have beautiful views of downtown Bellefonte right out your window, and then are within walking distance of everything this town has to offer,” said Adams.
For more information about applying for an apartment, contact Toby Shaffer at (814) 548-7393.
