ORLEANS – A local non-profit has taken the next step towards building a 16-unit housing community for adults with autism.
Cape Village Inc. has purchased a 4-acre plot in downtown Orleans. They are now working on permitting and designing the community.
A similar project in Dennis was approved by Dennis Town Meeting last year.
Bob Jones, the organization’s president, was inspired to build the community by his adult son, Alexander, who has autism. “My wife and I, as he got older, were increasingly concerned about where he would live the rest of his life and where he will be after we are gone,” Jones said. “After talking to other parents, we realized that most parents have the same concerns,” he added.
Jones said there is a lack of housing for adults with disabilities.
Orleans residents have been very supportive of the plan, according to Jones. Last year, residents unanimously approved using $350,000 in Community Preservation Act funds to help Cape Village Inc. purchase the land.
Jones said the project will cost about $4 million in total. A capital project is underway to raise those funds.
