Worcester Housing Authority Urges State Funding for Affordable Housing Projects
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Highlighting the pressing need for affordable housing in Worcester, Massachusetts, the Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) has emphasized the urgency of securing state funding for two key redevelopment projects. According to WHA, the waiting time for public housing and Section 8 vouchers can range from three to 10 years, underscoring the critical necessity for additional housing units.
CEO Alex Corrales underscored the significance of addressing the affordable housing crisis in Worcester. As the largest landlord in the city, Corrales sees the redevelopment of existing properties as a crucial step towards meeting the community’s housing needs.
The first project, the Curtis Apartments, built in 1950, is currently undergoing renovations to replace the existing 372 units with 527 modern apartments, including 50 wheelchair-accessible units. While phase one of the renovation is underway, the second phase is contingent on securing state funding, despite having received planning and zoning board approvals.
Similarly, the Lakeside Apartments, dating back to 1949 and the oldest property operated by WHA, are slated for renovation pending state funding. The proposed renovation aims to replace the existing 202 units with 350 units, including provisions for 30 wheelchair-accessible apartments and 20 units for affordable homeownership opportunities.
Corrales stressed the significance of these projects in addressing the statewide affordable housing crisis, commending the Healey Administration, the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED), and Secretary Edward Augustus for their attention to this urgent matter.
The WHA is urging the state to expedite funding for the redevelopment of these two apartment projects, warning of potential delays if funding remains unsecured. With the redevelopment of Curtis and Lakeside Apartments poised to significantly contribute to Worcester’s affordable housing supply, securing state funding is paramount to address the pressing housing needs of the community.
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