The Healey-Driscoll Administration is embracing the challenge to actively address Massachusetts' affordable housing crisis, announcing a $158 million investment to kick-start 14 new housing projects across the state. This significant financial commitment aims to create and maintain 1,138 affordable housing units for seniors and families in need. Governor Maura Healey heralded this move as a direct consequence of the $1 billion tax relief bill she signed in 2023, elevating the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit up to $60 million annually – an increase of $20 million over previous levels. "High housing costs are one of the biggest challenges facing Massachusetts residents," Healey explained, according to Mass.gov. "Our administration is refusing to kick the can down the road. We need to increase housing production across the state to lower costs – and these affordable housing awards will help us get there."
The administration is aiming to quickly commence construction on the new developments, which include a variety of projects like senior living spaces, energy-efficient renovations, and the creative conversion of an old mill into new housing units. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll emphasized the tangible impact of each dollar allocated, "Every dollar we're delivering to developers and communities directly translates into new, affordable homes for residents across our state," Driscoll told Mass.gov.
The funding for these projects is sourced from a mix of federal and state tax credits, with $23.3 million in federal 4 percent LIHTC, $6 million in federal 9 percent LIHTC, $35.6 million in state LIHTC, and a substantial $93.5 million in EOHLC subsidies. Projects set to benefit from these awards include The Brian J. Honan Apartments in Allston-Brighton, which will house 50 rehabilitated affordable units, and the Brooke House at Olmsted Village in Boston, which will offer a total of 127 affordable senior units upon completion.
Ed Augustus, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities, highlighted the Healey-Driscoll Administration's commitment to not only expand housing opportunities but also to preserve the state's cultural heritage through the renovation of historic buildings for housing purposes. "The Healey-Driscoll Administration's is working hard not only to expand affordable housing opportunities across the Commonwealth but also to preserve our rich history through the restoration and adaptive reuse of historic buildings for housing," Augustus expressed to Mass.gov. The comprehensive strategy outlines a roadmap aiming to not just alleviate but drive down housing costs, fostering stronger communities for the long term.
As the housing landscape in Massachusetts stands on the precipice of transformation, officials and citizens alike share a simmering anticipation for what this funding could mean for both the present and future of affordable living in the state. Plymouth Town Manager Derek Brindisi has already voiced appreciation for the administration's focus on affordable housing, noting the alignment with the town's own goals. "This award reinforces the Town’s commitment to expanding affordable housing options for our residents," Brindisi told Mass.gov.
