Housing Headlines

SPRINGFIELD --- Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services recently announced the availability of three rehabilitated houses in the Upper Hill neighborhood for low-income, first-time homebuyers. Interested homebuyers must register for the housing lottery by July 17 in order to be eligible to purchase the $75,000 to $140,000 homes. Visit http://205100mr.myerswebsites.com/ for more information about this lottery.

MALDEN --- The city's redevelopment authority recently celebrated the opening of nine live/work studios for artists at the former site of the Sacred Hearts Parish on Irving Street. All nine studios are designated as affordable for residents earning up to 80 percent of the area median income, with sale prices ranging from $120,000 to $125,000. The site will also include a gallery space, a roof deck, an outside terrace and storage rooms.

BILLERICA --- The zoning board of appeals recently granted a comprehensive permit to Aspen Apartment developers for the construction of the 384-unit rental apartment complex. The projected rental price for the 96 affordable rental units will be $1,071 per month for a one-bedroom unit, $1,284 for a two bedroom unit, and $1,484 for a three bedroom unit. The site will feature a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis court, recreational area and walking trails.

NORWELL --- The zoning board of appeals recently granted approval to a 40B affordable housing project proposed for Simon Hill Road. Simon Hill Village is set to consist of 80 condominium units with 20 units designated as affordable.

PROVINCETOWN --- Boston-based Community Builders developers recently received approval from the zoning board of appeals to build an $11 million affordable housing complex at 90 Shank Painter Road. Developers estimate that construction of the 50 low- and moderate-income rental apartments will begin in November 2009.

DRACUT --- The town housing authority recently announced that they will purchase and rehabilitate a senior housing complex starting in December. Improvements will include an updated sprinkler system, new handicapped-accessible units, a new roof, new windows and doors, and bringing the building's elevator up to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The 38 rental units will be affordable with seniors paying 30 percent of their income in rent.