A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Brownsville for a new affordable senior housing development.

The space, which was previously a church and considered a historic gem by many in the community, will soon provide affordable housing to seniors.

The Catholic Charities Loreto Apartments will be eight stories high. It will have nearly 150 apartments for low-income seniors. The project will integrate affordable independent residences (AIRs) for seniors with senior supportive housing.

The more than 50 AIR units will target seniors ages 62 or older. The remaining units will target formerly homeless individuals 55 and older, who are frail or have disabilities.

While there was controversy over demolishing Our Lady of Loreto Church, many people in the community tell News 12 they're excited for what the development can do for so many Brooklyn residents.

The developers tell News 12 those who live there will have access to comprehensive case management. They will also have access to two large community rooms for other activities.

The project is expected to be completed in the next two years.