Construction of a 58-unit, senior citizen apartment building on Haslett Road was approved by the East Lansing City Council on Tuesday.

Although the city rejected other projects aimed at expanding the rental market, officials say there is a need for senior housing in the area.

There isn't a market study on file chronicling the change in rental housing, city officials said. Some say the city should work with students to expand the market so there is cheaper rental housing closer to campus.

Because 10 percent of the city's population is older than 55, there will not be a problem finding occupants for the complex, said Jeanne Rogers, an East Lansing community development analyst.

"There are a number of seniors in our community who still reside in the homes they raised their families in," Councilmember Vic Loomis said.

By creating alternative housing for senior citizens, city officials want area homes available for young families, Rogers said.

Despite the high cost of living in senior apartment complexes statewide, Rogers added that the city and the developer are working to make sure that rent for the units will only range from $595 to $695 per month.

"Until they find something that is affordable, it is hard to get them out of a house," she said. "You can't throw them out on the street."

Plans for the development include shorter kitchen appliances, accessible bathrooms and railings along the main walls, said Joe Hollander, of Hollander Development Corp., the project's developer.

Also affecting East Lansing housing was the approval of an application to eliminate new rentals in the Bailey neighborhood. The application caused a stir among residents and landlords, stemming from the council's decision to add 16 properties to the application.

"These are homes, they are not apartment buildings," Councilmember Beverly Baten said. "In order to be a part the community they are located in, they need to be included."