The Phelps Business Development and Tourism Council has received a grant to launch a design competition encouraging Ontario County residents to create innovative tiny home and accessory dwelling unit (ADU) concepts tailored to residents aged 55 and older.
Funded by the AARP Community Challenge grant, the initiative aims to promote livable, age-friendly housing options through quick-action projects that inspire long-term community improvements.
The competition officially kicked off on July 9 with a launch event at the Phelps Business Development office on Main Street. Contest guidelines and a new website were unveiled during the celebration.
Residents ages 16 to 116 are invited to submit designs. Entries will be reviewed by panels of senior citizens, with the top 10 receiving $500 each. The top two designs will move forward for potential review by the Phelps Zoning Board, with an eye toward a pilot build in 2026.
