Historic Salisbury Building Transformed into Affordable Senior Housing

The old Ford City Motor building on Main Street is being converted into a 64-unit affordable housing complex for older adults.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A well-known building in downtown Salisbury, North Carolina, the former Ford City Motor building, is being transformed into an affordable 64-unit housing community for seniors. The project, led by the Osceola Council on Aging, will preserve the original structure while expanding it into a five-building complex in the heart of downtown Salisbury.

Why it matters

The project aims to address the growing need for affordable housing for seniors, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet on fixed incomes. By repurposing a historic site, the development also contributes to the revitalization of downtown Salisbury.

The details

The Ford City Motor Lofts will blend history with modern living, preserving the original Ford City Motor building structure while expanding it into a five-building complex. The 64-unit housing complex is designed specifically for older adults and is being developed by the Osceola Council on Aging.

  • The project is currently underway, with the building transformation taking place in 2026.

The players

Osceola Council on Aging

The organization leading the Ford City Motor Lofts project, recognizing the need for affordable housing and the opportunity to repurpose a historic site.

Wendy Ford

The president and CEO of the Osceola Council on Aging, who stated that the project "absolutely changes lives" by providing affordable housing for seniors.

Tamara Sheffield

The mayor of Salisbury, North Carolina, who said the project is "fantastic" and will allow seniors to "enjoy life".

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It absolutely changes lives. More and more seniors are not making it on their Social Security.”

— Wendy Ford, President and CEO, Osceola Council on Aging

“This provides that location in a great facility. It's fantastic to enjoy life, and that's what we want.”

— Tamara Sheffield, Mayor of Salisbury, North Carolina

What’s next

The Ford City Motor Lofts project is expected to be completed and open for occupancy by the end of 2026.

The takeaway

The transformation of the historic Ford City Motor building into an affordable senior housing community demonstrates how repurposing existing structures can help address the growing need for accessible and affordable housing for older adults, while also preserving the character and history of a local community.