It makes more sense to knock them down and build new ones. When the new complex is completed in 2002, it will have 400 units, almost double the current capacity. Modern heating, electrical and water systems will serve the apartments, and they will be fully wired for telecommunications of the 21st century. The new structures will be low buildings set among the trees on the site. While Radford Court rents have not yet been set, Brown says the new units will be from 10 to 20 percent below market rates for new apartments.
Current residents are unhappy about the increase.
Wood has been living at Sand Point for four years with his wife, Patricia, and two children. Demolition of half the units starts this summer, with the first phase of new construction completed in fall 2001. Workers will then tear down the remaining old structures, with the second phase opening in fall 2002.