Starting Line Apartments

With Utica’s support and input, DePaul is providing long-term or permanent affordable housing where residents can access the support services they need to live successfully in the community. Starting Line Apartments, designed by SWBR, is so named because the 62,000 SF, 3-story, handicap-accessible building overlooks the starting line of the city’s world-renowned Boilermaker Road Race, annually benefitting community support organizations.

The exterior cladding blends fiber cement siding and brick with a landmark copper-color metal panel on the corner facing the race – complete with water hook-up for race use. Inside, administrative offices, lounges, a computer area, laundry and fully equipped exercise area support 54 1-bedroom and 6 2-bedroom apartments – half fully accessible and half access-adaptable. A community room and green-roof terrace are oriented to the starting line.

On-site housing specialists offer 24-hour support and connect residents with medical, legal, educational, training, mental health, family, and veteran services. “Our goal is to help people to stay in their community, provide a positive link to the community and its services,” said DePaul President Mark Fuller.