Construction began Thursday in a project that will turn a historical mill in Bessemer City into affordable apartments.

What is it?

Developer WinnDevelopment is putting the apartments in the Osage Mill, a 250,000-square-foot building that is one of Bessemer City's first textile mills.

How many apartments?

The apartments will consist of 50 one-bedroom units, 77 two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom units. Units will be scattered throughout the first and second floors and will range from 730 square feet to 1,224 square feet.

When will they be ready?

Work began in earnest on Thursday, and construction is expected to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2024.

How much will the rent be?

Apartments will range from $800 per month to $1,100 based on the household size and unit type.

What is the mill's history?

The building has been largely vacant since 1995. It was built by founder John Askey Smith in 1896 and was one of the city's largest textile mills.

What kind of work will be done?

The mill will be renovated to preserve the historic fabric of the building, according to WinnDevelopment. In addition to the apartments, there will be an on-site management office, a mail room and package lockers, a lounge for residents, a fitness room, and storage for residents. Residents also will have access to a dog park, a seating and picnic area and a children's playground. There will also be 244 parking spaces.

What is WinnDevelopment?

WinnDevelopment has been responsible for the reuse and rehabilitation of 41 historic properties since 1981, creating nearly 5,000 new apartments nationwide.

How much will it cost?

The development project is expected to cost $35 million.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Former mill to be turned into affordable apartments in Bessemer City