In response to affordable housing waiting lists for the elderly in Boston, at times approaching seven years, redevelopment of the 28-unit Hong Lok House in the Chinatown neighborhood has been announced. The current house at 25-31 Essex Street will be torn down and replaced by an eight-story building that will include 74 residential condos, an apartment to house a full-time manager, and a new senior center on the street level.

The development team is currently waiting for approval from the city’s historic commission, since the area is a historic district.

Pending approval, construction will take place in two 12-month phases, the first to begin in 2008. The 2,500-square-foot elder center will include a gathering place, medical treatment clinic, and a room for ballroom dancing.

Thank you to the Boston Business Journal for breaking this information.