Sutton to have senior housing

SUTTON -- Low-income seniors have a new opportunity at finding affordable housing in Sutton.

A contractor has begun building two five-unit senior housing complexes in Sutton right along the Glenn Highway. Federal housing dollars are funding the project, which is expected to be ready for residents in August. This is the first facility of its kind in this part of the Valley.

"There's definitely a need for it and it's something that we'll have a larger need for in the future," Sutton Community Council President Barb Leppanen said.

A number of people have already expressed interest in renting the one-bedroom, 540-square-foot apartments, according to Marc Marlow, the contractor heading up the construction. Eight apartments will be available, while the other two apartments are reserved for caretakers.

Sutton resident Lillian Jones is one of those interested in the apartments. She's lived in Sutton since 1988 but is currently staying in an assisted living facility in Palmer due to a medical condition. She'd rather be closer to home for the few months until she's able to return home.

Jones was surprised to learn such a positive project was being developed in Sutton.

"I've lived in Alaska since 1969 and it seems that whenever something bad happens, it's always happening in Sutton or the Butte," Jones said.

This type of housing lets residents who appreciate Sutton have more options in remaining there. The company that will operate the housing, Manor Management of Alaska, runs several other senior-housing facilities like this in Anchorage, according to Manor Management's Greg Franks.

Information packets and detailed blueprints are available for inspection at the Sutton Library, or people may call Manor Management of Alaska at 1-800-207-4922.