The revitalization of the Lincoln Street neighborhood got another boost yesterday with the opening of the Christopher Heights of Marlborough assisted-living complex.

"This is one of many projects in the French Hill area that will help the neighborhood get back to being what it should be," City Council President Arthur Vigeant said during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Mayor Nancy Stevens cut the ribbon yesterday afternoon at the 83-unit facility's main entrance, after an hourlong grand opening with city officials, residents, and Christopher Heights officials.

"This is a thrill to finally see this project come to life," she said. "This is a project vitally important to the neighborhood."

The 53,000-square-foot building, a former shoe factory dating back to 1865, was abandoned in 1989 and has belonged to the city since 1997.

Christopher Heights features 83 units - a mix of studio, alcove, and one-bedroom rooms for seniors. Michelle Jones, the marketing director for the facility in Worcester, said Marlborough's facility will have everything from a pub to a salon to a Nintendo Wii for residents.

"We want them to be as independent as they can but know we're still here for them," she said.

Jones said the building will be staffed with "companions" certified nurse aides or home health aides at all times and a registered nurse during weekdays.

Three residents moved in earlier this week and applications are being accepted now, said Walter Ohanian, the director of operations.

"It's amazing what we have now compared to what this was," said Ohanian, as he stood outside the building after the ribbon-cutting. "We're going to do a lot of good and take care of frail elders in the community who have lived here and surrounding communities for years."

(Matt Lynch can be reached at 508-490-7453 or mlynch@cnc.com.)