FARMINGTON — The developers of a proposed 32-unit elderly housing complex called Brookside Apartments on the Fairbanks Road are seeking a tentative groundbreaking by the summer or early fall of 2011.

Approval of the plan by Rural Development for income qualifying tenants has been received, and developers William Marceau and Byron “Buzz” Davis are in the process of applying for a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant with the help of the town.

The grant will be used for infrastructure, road improvement, water and sewer connections on land already designated for future condominium housing called Willow Springs at the site of the former Maine Dowel Mill.  The application will be filed by January 2011.

Administered by the local municipality, acceptance of the CDBG will come to voters at the March town meeting, Town Manager Richard Davis told selectmen last week. It’s a $4 million project that will provide taxable income to the town.

This in addition to the $12-13 million project proposed for 43 units for Willow Springs, said Marceau on Monday. Between the two, a projected $15-$16 million project, all taxable, near to town and with minimal burden on town amenities, he said.

The proposed two-story building, facing south toward a small pond on the property, is located on 3.5 acres behind Bean and Smith Real Estate, land previously designated for 11 condos, he said. It will take a year to build and a few more months to fill, but they are looking for an opening by early 2013, he said.

“It’s very exciting. We’ve been patient but these big projects can take years,” Marceau said.

The 32 one-bedroom apartments for elderly, handicapped and disabled tenants who qualify by income will be state of the art and incorporate the latest and greatest green techniques, he said. They are working with engineers on plans that include wind turbine, solar panels and perhaps pellet boilers. He expects the units will receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification.

After Brookside Apartments develops, Marceau is looking for the Willow Springs to progress.  During recent economic trials, people haven’t been able to sell their homes and purchase one of the condominiums for ages 55-plus, he said. It’s a 10-year project.

The units are offered by Foothills Real Estate Development and Management with an office located on Pleasant Street, according to their website at www.willowspringsliving.com

After demolishing the mill in 2003, the pair have paid taxes and paid for lawn mowing, but now they can see their efforts coming in to reality.

“We’ve paid our dues and are tired of making payments with nothing coming in,” he said. “We’ve been at it seven years. It’s exciting to see things coming together.”

Marceau and Davis will bring the plan back for a revision on the subdivision by the Planning Board, and more information will be available as the pair work with engineers and if the grant needs voter approval in March.

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