Mayor Michelle Wu, together with B'nai B'rith Housing, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), MassHousing, and other stakeholders, marked the Grand Opening of Parkway 1208. Boston.gov highlighted the importance of this development, an energy-efficient and transit-oriented affordable housing project offering 60 new income-restricted apartments for individuals, families, and older Bostonians in West Roxbury.
Located at 1208D VFW Parkway, the land acquisition for Parkway 1208 was facilitated by the Boston-based non-profit B’nai B’rith Housing. The neighborhood boasts 10 percent of its housing stock as income-restricted housing and 38 percent rental, compared to the citywide average of 19 percent and 65 percent, respectively.
Mayor Wu applauded the collaborative effort involved in creating affordable housing like Parkway 1208, stating that it "shows what’s possible when we collaborate with residents, our partners, and different sectors and levels of government to create much-needed income-restricted housing in our neighborhoods." Among the 60 units available, 45 are designated for households earning less than 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), with units reserved for low-income households transitioning out of homelessness. The remaining 15 units are set aside for households earning less than 90 percent of AMI.
Sheila Dillon, Chief of Housing, praised Parkway 1208 for not only addressing Boston's housing needs but also fostering inclusivity and sustainability. The development features modern amenities, a vibrant community space, and environmentally friendly design elements, reflecting a commitment to making housing accessible for individuals and families of all backgrounds. The project meets LEED Gold standards and includes energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, Energy Star-rated appliances, raised garden beds, green spaces with walking paths, and bike storage. In addition, the development is strategically positioned near shopping centers, cultural and outdoor attractions, as well as public transit options, promoting walkability and accessibility.
Other on-site facilities include a gym, dog washing room, elevator, central air conditioning, laundry facility, a spacious community room, and an ADA-compliant play structure within a courtyard. As Susan Gittelman, Executive Director of B'nai B'rith Housing, expressed gratitude and pride towards the completion of Parkway 1208, she acknowledged the role of numerous partners in making the project a reality.
Pivotal financial support for Parkway 1208 came from several organizations, comprising the City of Boston's Mayor’s Office of Housing, the EOHLC, MassHousing, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Eastern Bank, and Boston Financial. These served as the low-income housing tax credit investor to meet the project's budgetary requirements. EOHLC Secretary Ed Augustus Jr. emphasized the significant impact of Parkway 1208 on alleviating the housing affordability crisis for Boston families, seniors, and the city's workforce, and how the EOHLC was proud to support this joint effort.
Aligning with principles of smart growth and transit-oriented development, Parkway 1208 is part of Mayor Wu's broader commitment to affordable housing in Boston. Boston.gov detailed the allocation of $236 million in ARPA funds designated for various housing initiatives. These range from supporting first-generation homebuyers' financial assistance to developing new permanent supportive housing for those battling substance use disorders and funding upgrades for Boston Housing Authority properties.
