Public housing redevelopment emphasizes neighborhood amenities, green building
The Old Colony housing project, which is considered the most physically distressed site in the Boston Housing Authority portfolio, is being redeveloped as The Homes at Old Colony. The first phase of 116 units includes an apartment building, five townhouse buildings, and a community center. The developer is seeking LEED green building certification for both its buildings and its neighborhood. Now phase 2, by developer Beacon Communities, has began with demolition of old buildings. It will include 169 new affordable units. The South Boston project, one of the last to receive funding from the HOPE VI program, is located close to many amenities including subway and bus public transit lines, Carson Beach and three neighborhood parks, and stores within about a half mile. The master plan provides improved access and connections to the surrounding neighborhood.
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