Construction of a new building at the Gladys & Henry Crown Center for Senior Living officially kicked off on May 27 with a ceremonial groundbreaking. The Tallin Building will add 68 units to the independent living facility and provide affordable housing in a total of 238 apartments.

The new structure is expected to be completed by summer 2027. It replaces the original Tallin Building, which was built in 1967 and razed when it became functionally obsolete several years ago. The current project is the culmination of Phase II of Crown Center’s expansion. The total cost of the Tallin Building is projected to be $23 million, which will be funded by $19 million in borrowed funds and tax credit equity, and $4 million in philanthropy.

Honoring a longtime supporter

Major donors for construction of the Tallin Building are Richard Tallin (for whom the building will be named) Randy and Nancy Green, and the JCA Charitable Foundation. Tallin provided support well beyond funding, according to Todd Goldenhersh, board president.

“Richard didn’t simply donate, he ensured continuity,” Goldenhersh said to a gathering of supporters following the groundbreaking. “In the most meaningful and tangible way possible, he affirmed that this place matters and that history matters. For decades, Richard has given generously both his time and his leadership to Crown Center.

“He’s always been willing to step in whenever needed, whether serving meals to residents, volunteering at holiday events, helping guide the organization through his leadership as board president and now a member of our Council of Life,” Goldenhersh said. “His commitment to this community has been constant and deeply personal.”

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Expanding affordable housing

Amy Bender-Levy, vice president of the board, said the construction of the new Tallin Building is a concrete example of the Crown Center mission: to provide affordable housing and services that allow older adults to live independently and with dignity.

“This new building will help us meet that mission, adding 68 one-bedroom apartments in a community that is vibrant, supportive, and welcoming,” Bender-Levy said.

More than an apartment building

Concluding the program was Genies Jordan, resident council co-president, who told the supporters and her fellow residents that Crown Center is not just an apartment building.

“This is a shared community,” Jordan said. “It is a place where people look out for each other, where friendship grows, and where you truly feel at home. It means a lot to know that Crown Center will welcome more residents and invest in housing programs and support that makes this a great place to live. And I’m truly blessed to be a part of it.”