Major upgrades planned for homeless veterans program

Volunteers of America Chesapeake will soon begin $27 million in renovations to Paca House, which provides permanent housing in Baltimore to the homeless, including veterans. The complex that opened in 1996 at 116-120 North Paca Street will begin conversion in May from 106 single rooms and efficiencies to 92 more modern efficiencies and one-bedroom apartments, with kitchens and bathrooms. Volunteers of America said it will redevelop the property through a joint venture with Somerset Development LLC, a Washington-based developer with a Baltimore office that focuses on urban revitalization projects. The Paca House upgrades will be financed through corporate and nonprofit grants, Volunteers of America Chesapeake funds, city community development funds and state low-income housing funds and tax credits. The program will continue to offer supportive services and add services offered at the nearby Veterans Affairs Medical Center and other providers. Nineteen units will be reserved for homeless veterans and veterans will be given preference in 63 more units. Residents in good standing will not be displaced, though they will be relocated during construction, slated to finish in August 2019, according to Volunteers of America Chesapeake. program for building apartments meeting energy-efficiency standards. Officials with Somerset said the new building will include a gastro pub on the first floor and offer a fitness club, a rooftop terrace and a dog park. It’s slated to open in spring 2019 and developers aim to attract students from the nearby Maryland Institute College of Art, young professionals and empty-nesters. approved giving Supernus $800,000 in state funds for use on certain company expenses and $90,000 for worker training. Montgomery County is providing a $500,000 grant and Gaithersburg is offering a $400,000 grant.