In first week, 128 apply at affordable housing project.

Within a week of being approved by the Union Planning Board, Lenox Meadows, a community being developed in accordance with Commission of Affordable Housing (COAH) guidelines, has already received 128 applications for the new homes.

Affordable Housing Developers, Inc. (AHD) is the builder of the project.

AHD, which is assisting Union with processing applications, believes th at at least 1,000 hopeful buyers will explore the possibility of purchasing at Lenox Hill. Under pre-established COAH and Union guidelines, purchasers who live or work in Union will be given preference for 50 percent of the homes.

Purchasers with incomes of 40-80 percent of the county median, currently targeted from $17,784 and $41,990 for three- and five-person households, may qualify to buy a Lenox Meadows home.

Mr. Gore stressed that the challenge of providing affordable housing in Union and throughout New Jersey is the top priority of AHD.

AHD' s arrangement with Union calls for a public/private venture that allows the firm to work in concert with municipality to provide needed affordable housing.

The community is being constructed on vacant in-fill sites in the Vauxhall section of Union. No government or other subsidies will be required to fund the development.

Three homes have been specially designed for handicapped residents.

The design and density of the homes are consistent with the Vauxhall neighborhood. Designed mostly as fee simple duplexes, typical structures include two dwellings with garages, sliding glass doors that lead to a rear yard, and a range of brand name appliances.