Housing Headlines

GROTON --- The Groton Housing Authority may use Community Preservation Act funds to hire a 40B consultant that would help the town determine how best to increase its affordable housing stock, including the possibility of developing town-owned land.

BOSTON --- After a year of renovations, Mattapan residents prepare to move back into their newly renovated affordable apartments. All of the units have brand new kitchens, updated appliances, and gleaming hardwood floors, among other upgrades. MHP assisted in this effort by committing over $4.3 million in first-mortgage financing and $450,000 in HomeFunders second mortgage financing to the 95-unit effort.

NEW BEDFORD --- A building that was once a neighborhood eyesore has been restored into 17 affordable homes for low-income residents. The units were developed by Community Action for Better Housing, a subsidiary of Catholic Social Services, and MHP provided nearly $1 million in first and second mortgage financing.

BOSTON --- While the Boston Redevelopment Authority has dubbed the area "South Bay" with hopes to develop upscale apartments, hotels, and offices, Boston's Chinatown joins Chinatowns across the nation in the fight to preserve the affordability of their ethnic enclaves that have been home to generations of new immigrants.

ROWLEY --- With plans to build affordable housing, Rowley has purchased 102 acres of the historic Bradstreet farm property. It plans to use $2.75 million of Community Preservation Act funds, raised through a three percent surcharge to taxpayers, to finance the purchase of the land. The effort is notable because it is the first in which the land will be dedicated to all four uses of CPA funds. Portions of the land will also be preserved as open space, and the town plans to preserve a barn and farmhouse as well as create athletic fields for a nearby school.

LEXINGTON --- The town's senior planner held a meeting last week to discuss solutions for the town's affordable housing need. Though Lexington has surpassed the 10 percent affordable housing requirement imposed by the state, officials recognize the need for more affordable housing for young families.