"WoodCrest Retirement Residence provides affordable housing for seniors, as well as convenient services that make life more enjoyable and comfortable," said Onorato. "Seniors who no longer want the responsibility of homeownership can move here and have access to meal plans, van transportation, a wellness center, and even a hair salon. I also commend a.m. Rodriguez for its continued commitment to green building practices and striving for gold LEED-certification for WoodCrest. This project complements our Allegheny Green initiative and adds to Southwestern Pennsylvania's reputation as one of the 'greenest' regions in the nation."

a.m. Rodriguez Associates transformed St. Joseph Hall, formerly used to house frail nuns at the Felician Sisters Convent & School, into a retirement residence using green building techniques and supplies.

Materials such as carpeting, paint and finishes can contain high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polluting indoor air and aggravating pulmonary conditions, including asthma and emphysema.

"We believe it is important to build environmentally friendly and healthy residences for our seniors and that is what we have done with Allegheny County and Sota Construction for the last 12 years," said a.m. Rodriguez Associates Vice President Victor Rodriguez. "Residents save on energy costs, and we reduce building impacts on the environment through better design, construction, operation, maintenance and removal. ."

The efficiencies and one- and two-bedroom apartments range in size from 495 square feet to 855 square feet and are available to those 55 and older with an income not exceeding $25,200 for an individual or $28,800 for a household of two.

For information, call 412-264-0918.

Allegheny County provided nearly $1.3 million in loans for the project, PHFA provided $1.2 million, and John Hancock Corporation assisted with $7 million in equity. Woodcrest Retirement Residence is adjacent to the Felician Sisters Convent & High School, which will provide an opportunity for residents to use the library, cafeteria and chapel.