An affordable housing complex scheduled to be built in an empty lot near Westchester Square is causing some concern among many Bronx residents.

The city Department of Housing has confirmed that the landowner has received public subsidies, which means income levels had to go down. What worries residents is 30 percent of the units will house the formerly homeless. Residents say their presence raises safety issues.

Councilman James Vacca says a deal has been negotiated with the owner of the complex. He says the homeless component will consist of senior citizens who have had housing emergencies. He also says not only will the complex provide housing, but also stores on the first level. These stores will only be open during normal business hours.

Some Bronx residents say affordable housing is hard to find and is needed.