Residents and board members of Eastgate Plaza Inc. had a lot to smile about during a celebration picnic Sunday afternoon.
The picnic was held in recognition of major improvements at the non-profit apartment complex located at 302 S. East Street. The improvements included two new playgrounds and the replacement of two goals on the complex’s basketball court.
The total cost of the project was $125,000 and was funded by the Emporia Community Foundation. The $125,000 check was presented by ECF Executive Director Becky Jeppesen during Sunday’s celebration.
The new additions follow other recent projects including the installation of vinyl siding on all buildings four years ago which eliminates the need for repainting every five to six years. Eastgate site manager Shelley Wright says it warms her heart to see just how far Eastgate has come over the past few years.
Eastgate’s complex was built 48 years ago in 1971 and all apartments are eligible for Section 8 government assistance through the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Eastgate was originally a project both started and later owned by the Emporia Jaycees to help alleviate a housing shortage. With the Jaycees no longer operating, Eastgate is still operated by a five-member board of directors.
In attendance for Sunday’s celebration was Eastgate Board President Joe Denson who has been a part of the project from the very beginning. For that reason, Denson says Eastgate holds a very special place in his heart.
More improvements will be coming soon thanks to $290,000 grant awarded by ECKAN this past summer. The grant will help replace current windows and doors, add insulation, repair foundation wall leaks and insulate water heaters.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
{gallery}Eastgate Plaza Celebration{/gallery}
