Housing Headlines

FALL RIVER --- The local housing authority has renewed discussions with the state about razing the Watuppa Heights housing project and replacing it with 26 affordable housing units. Housing authority officials are reportedly seeking bids on how to relocate the 80 families that currently live in the housing project.

HOLYOKE --- MassDevelopment has reportedly OK'd $17 million in financing for the development of over 100 units for the elderly. The Geriactric Authority is planning to develop its property at 45 Lower Westfield into a 81-bed skilled nursing home and a 51-unit affordable assisted living complex. The authority has already hired Brian J. Kelleher, a founder and principal in the Aspen Group of North Reading, to serve as project manager.

HINGHAM --- From all angles, Hingham is making progress on affordable housing. With technical assistance from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership, the Hingham Housing Partnership recently selected a developer to build 38 affordable units, while the Housing Authority is preparing to issue a Request for Proposals to build another 40 units.

BOXFORD --- Though the town recently rejected a proposal to use CPA funds to build four affordable rental units, voters approved a bylaw authorizing homeowners to create accessory apartments. Some housing advocates criticized Boxford's mixed housing messages, noting that passing the optional bylaw does not guarantee that affordable units will be built.

HARWICH --- How to construct a village center was a major point of discussion at a smart growth meeting moderated by the state's director of sustainable development and attended by approximately 100. Emulating Dennisport's decision to allow two-story construction along major roads was one of the options discussed.

WALTHAM --- A former school building might be converted into affordable housing. The Request for Proposals (RFP) released by the town names affordable housing as one of two priority uses for the property, though some are criticizing language in the RFP which might make it difficult for non-profits to compete with for-profit development proposals.