The Philip Sheridan School is now set to get a major makeover.

In Tonawanda, there is a need for more senior housing. According to a 2018 Census Bureau report, more than 40 percent of the population is comprised of Baby Boomers. One developer talked about his decision to bring a senior living campus to the area.

All stages of life – from elementary school to senior living – that’s what the future holds for the former Philip Sheridan School in Tonawanda.

“This is an example of an existing classroom that will become a new apartment,” said John Duerr, the project manager for Ken-Ton Elmwood Commons.

The old Philip Sheridan Building is about to get a $25 million facelift as it transforms into a senior living campus. That campus will include 15 apartments and 10,000 square feet of commercial space inside the school.

Connected to the school, a brand new “H” shaped single and double room apartment building will be built.

“We want it to be a safe and secure spot for our seniors,” Duerr said.

People over the age of 55 are eligible tenants. Rent will cost between $1100 and $1400 per month.

“The Town of Tonawanda is an aging population,” said Duerr. “If you go all around to all the apartment complexes that are existing, they’re all sold out. There are no vacancies. Some of them have a three-year waiting list to get in, so the need was definitely there.”

Duerr is also looking to make this a historic site. That means the lockers, phone booth and classic amenities will all remain.

He says he wants to utilize what he has within the school. He plans to bring in a theatre company to perform shows in the old auditorium.

“We want it to be an entertainment venue for the Town of Tonawanda,” said Duerr.

Blue Giraffe Child Care and Buffalo Turner’s Gymnastics will also be staying in the building.

“This is a big project for the Town of Tonawanda and Western New York,” said Duerr.

People can start signing up for the apartments right now. If you’d like to get into one of them, the number is posted on WKBW.com.

Duerr hopes shovels will hit the ground by the end of the year.