COLUMBUS, OHIO — Columbus-based developer Woda Cooper Cos. has opened Wendler Commons, a $15.4 million affordable housing development located at 4860 Wendler Blvd. in Columbus. Wendler Commons comprises 62 units that are affordable for households that earn 30 to 80 percent of area median income, including 14 one-bedroom apartments, 40 two-bedroom apartments and eight three-bedroom apartments. Four units are designed for those with mobility challenges, and two additional units are specifically equipped for those with sight and/or hearing impairments.
Rental rates are $330 to $1,060 per month, depending on unit size and income restriction. Units come with cable, telephone and internet access. Community amenities include an onsite management office, a multipurpose space with a kitchenette, a playroom, a fitness center and laundry with off-street parking.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency allocated federal low-income housing tax credits to support equity financing as well as provided an equity bridge mortgage. Ohio Capital Corp. for Housing purchased the tax credits, which enabled equity financing invested by Cincinnati-based Fifth Third Bank, which also provided a construction loan. Merchants Capital provided a first permanent mortgage. The City of Columbus originated $750,000, and the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus and Franklin County provided a primary equity bridge loan.
Woda Construction Inc. was the general contractor. PCI Design Group Inc. served as architect, Structure Point was the civil engineer and Sol Design + Consulting provided green building consultation services. Woda Cooper’s management division oversees leasing and property management.