Development at the Rockaway Seniors Housing Complex will be completed by the end of the year with the last of the residents receiving their keys in January.

Seniors are now occupying almost half of the apartments built by the Bermuda Housing Trust, it was announced yesterday.

The trust hosted a press conference and tour at the site announcing the progress of the initiative.

Out of 100 one-bedroom apartments, 48 are currently occupied with one or more residents. The $850 per month rent is exclusively for seniors. Currently, two phases or 'pods' have been completed with 24 more units to be ready the first week of November. Trust Chairman, Ronald Simmons said: "I am delighted at the progress that has been made at this site and wish to thank the Bank of Bermuda Foundation and the Bank of Bermuda for sharing in our commitment to providing quality, affordable housing for our seniors by their generous financial assistance to this project." He also thanked the Government for its donation, the board, and everyone who was involved in building the complex. Bank of Bermuda CEO Phil Butterfield added: "We believed in the success of this project from the beginning and are pleased to see the culmination of months of planning and hard work in these homes here today. "This is another great example of the progress we can make as a community when the private sector, public sector and the wider community come together to achieve a common goal." Deputy Chairman of the Bank of Bermuda Foundation David Hamshere said: "Our success as a country can only be measured by the standard of living of all citizens, including our seniors, and not by the wealth or a select few. "We believe it is important to take care of those who have worked tirelessly and dedicated their lives in building the success we enjoy as a country today."To this end, we are confident the Rockaway Project will go a long way in securing a stable and comfortable future for all of Bermuda's senior citizens."Trevor Fyfe, chairman of Finance and Building committee of the Bermuda Housing, Trust said:"We in Bermuda can be extremely proud in what has taken place."It wouldn't be possible without what I call trench fighters. This is surely what happens when you do noble work." He also explained the 100 units will be completed 20 months from the day ground was broken. Mrs. Carrie Burgess opened her home for the tour.She has been living in her apartment since April and said she loves it. Mrs. Burgess said she really liked the handrails in the bathroom, the beautiful floors and windows. "I came here to stop from moving so much. My mind is at ease. I'm here to stay for the rest of my life," she said with a smile. The apartments will be completed for the end of the year with the move in day for the final residents set for early January. Each unit is a three-storey building with a central core staircase, elevator, and a washer and dryer. The complex is a short walk to the Rockaway Ferry and the bus stop. For more information, contact the trust at 292-1322.