Housing Headlines

ORLEANS --- At a recent Planning Board workshop, residents were given a chance to weigh in on a zoning proposal that would change the face of downtown Orleans. Under consideration is an amendment that would allow 10 housing units on 20,000 square feet in the town center, up from the current six.The zoning change could create an estimated 800 new dwelling units in the village center.

WORCESTER --- The city's hopes for the redevelopment of the Lincoln Square area has taken a step backward as developer Brady Sullivan has terminated its sale agreement with the city to purchase and develop the former Worcester County Courthouse into 115 apartments and 3,000 square feet of retail space.

WESTBORO --- Needing funds to fund a potential library expansion, a stand-alone pre-kindergarten building and to renovate or replace existing schools, the town has agreed to sell 38 acres of state hospital land to Pulte Homes, which is planning to build 700 units housing for seniors 55 and over.

EAST BOSTON --- State and city officials gathered with developer Trinity Financial on Dec. 7 to celebrate the groundbreaking of the first phase of the redevelopment of Orient Heights, a 331-unit public housing development. Phase 1 will involve the demolition of 90 units and the construction of 120 units.

AMHERST — At its fourth and final Town Meeting session in November, voters rejected a zoning change that would have required developers to provide more affordable housing in large-scale projects.

BROOKLINE — One week after a developer pitched a 21-story apartment building for Coolidge Corner, selectmen have asked state officials to back a temporary moratorium on the review of future projects proposed under the state’s affordable housing law.