Housing Headlines

WORCESTER --- A New Hampshire based developer recently won approval from the Planning Board to redevelop the former Junction Shop mill complex into apartment units. Built between 1870 and 1878, the complex is one of the few remaining structures in what was the Junction Shops Manufacturing District. The developer plans to convert the four building that make up the complex into 181 loft-style apartments. "Some of us had trepidations about the previous plans because some demolition was involved," said planning board member Satya Mitra. "This is certainly an improvement when it comes to the preservation and maintenance of all these structures."

EASTON --- Some members of the town's Community Preservation Act Committee are wondering whether the town is spending too much of its CPA funds on housing. The concerns were voiced after the town's trust requested $520,000 to support homeownership assistance and home repair programs.

WALTHAM - Development along Watertown's Pleasant Street development zone may soon bleed into Waltham, as developers are looking to build a 200-unit apartment complex. Attorney Josh Davis --- representing developer TC Saracen, LLC --- told the city council recently that the proposed apartment complex would include seven studios, 107 one-bedroom apartments, 82 two-bedroom apartments, and four three-bedroom units, with 10 percent of the units affordable. The project would be built within the city's Riverfront Overlay District, which is near the Charles River.

BOSTON --- National Development recently presented a revised plan to turn the former Boston Herald building into a mixed-use project bringing apartments, a supermarket, restaurants, and a mini-park to the neighborhood. Under the current proposal National Development would construct four buildings, containing 471 apartment units, with below-grade parking for residents. If the city approves of the proposal, demolition could begin by the end of the year with construction starting in January 2013.

BARNSTABLE --- An online directory geared to connecting homeless families with available units and grant funds from the Fireman Foundation to support employment opportunities are two highlight's of Cape Cod's new plan to confront homelessness.

MANSFIELD - Selectmen this week voted to renew the town's membership in the Greater Attleboro Taunton Home Consortium on July 1 to allow local developers to apply for federal affordable housing funds.