After more than two years of planning, design and construction, the West Hartford Housing Authority celebrated the opening of 40 renovated senior housing units at Elm Grove Apartments with a ribbon cutting ceremony, photos, and tours.

Tom Arcari, QA+M Architecture’s principal, said, “We are proud to assist West Hartford’s Housing Authority in achieving its affordable housing preservation goals. Elm Grove’s renovations should ensure that the property is a great place to live for the next 35 years.”

The $2.5-million rehabilitation and renovation transformed many of the units, built in 1978, from studio spaces to one-bedroom apartments. Due to some expected vacancies, only a few residents were impacted when their apartments were renovated.

Improvements included new appliances, floors and updates to kitchens and bathrooms. The laundry room, community room and office were also modernized; walkways and entryways were redesigned and improved.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by spectators, supporters and town officials, including West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor and George Howell, executive director of the West Hartford Housing Authority and CEO of Trout Brook Realty Advisors. “We’re very excited with the reinvestment of the property and demonstration of care for the property,” Cantor said.

Kevin McFarland, AIA, a QA+M Associate, was Project Manager. Newfield Construction managed the construction of the Elm Grove renovation project.