PARIS, Il (WTWO/WAWV) — A ceremonial ribbon cutting officially transitioned one of Paris, Illinois’ oldest buildings into the city’s newest senior living unit. After five years of work, the Tiger Senior Apartments is complete with more than 40 rooms and a gym.
Located on Main Street and formerly known as the Paris High School, Mayor Craig Smith thinks the 100-year-old building will continue to be a community cornerstone.
“When we took the property over from the school board, we just knew the city needed to control it. We didn’t want it to just be a dilapidated building,” Smith said.
Michael Morris, a PHS graduate and the facility’s first resident, said he’s glad to see this building get a new use.
“I think it’s just the history, it’s kind of the center point of downtown,” Morris said. “It’s a little off the square, but you’ve got the library close and we have this great gym the city maintains and still uses for events.”
Even with a few road bumps encountered, Smith said completing this project demonstrates the city’s desire to continue economic growth.
“So, you got the jobs, you got the restaurants coming, what’s the fix you need next? Housing,” Smith said. “So, that’s what we’re looking at now. We have to increase our housing to let people live here and work here.”
Morris said he chose to live in the Senior Tiger Apartments because “the time was right,” and thinks others will follow.
“People are going to flock to this place eventually, and there will be a waiting list to get here. It’s just a great building, has great amenities. I don’t think you can beat it,” Morris confidently said.
Rooms are available for people 55 and older.
Those interested can call (217) 466-4943 or email tigersenior@laborershome.org
