The town of Gelnica is advancing plans to construct two new apartment buildings in a bid to improve its housing options and attract new residents. Currently, the town is in the process of securing a building permit for an apartment building in the SNP housing estate and has initiated the contractor selection process. This information was shared by Milo Janáč from the town hall, following a series of articles highlighting housing challenges in the city. The proposed building in the SNP housing estate will consist of over 20 residential units, offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. These units will be allocated based on criteria set by the State Housing Development Fund. “They will be designated for applicants meeting the specific conditions outlined by the fund,” Janáč explained. In addition to the SNP housing estate project, the town is planning a smaller four-story apartment building on Športova Street. This development will replace the existing multifunctional playground, which will be relocated to the primary school grounds. The new building is expected to include nine flats. Currently, Gelnica rents out apartments in two four-story buildings on Športova Street and three units on Záhradná Street. However, demand far exceeds supply, with over 40 applications for municipal rental flats on the waiting list. Janáč noted that the eligibility of these applicants is assessed only when a unit becomes available, leaving some uncertainty about the actual number of qualifying applicants. The town hall emphasized its commitment to addressing housing needs and fostering growth. By expanding housing options, Gelnica hopes to meet the demand of local residents while attracting new people to the area. “Increasing the population base is a key condition for the town’s further development,” the town hall stated. Currently, Gelnica is not in discussions with any private investors interested in constructing additional apartment buildings, but the town remains optimistic about its ongoing initiatives to enhance the local housing market. Source: Korzár