Affordable Housing Development

The Trust is actively pursuing development opportunities in a number of Essex County communities.

Whipple Annex - Ipswich, MA

Whipple Apartments seeking tenants

*click here for an update on this project*

In May 2006, the Trust began transforming the former Whipple Annex in Ipswich into 10 apartments for low-income seniors, 62 years of age and older. The annex was formerly used as a storage facility for Ipswich's middle school and is located within walking distance from the center of town and the senior center. When complete, four apartments will be set aside for residents earning 30 percent or below the area median income, four units will be for residents at or below 50 percent of the area median income and two apartments will be for those at or below 80 percent of the area median income. These attractively-designed, brand new affordable one-bedroom flats are located in a fully-renovated former mill building and offer central heat and air conditioning, a galley kitchen and handicap adaptable design features. Large new windows overlook the river from every unit. Laundry facilities, a resident lounge, and off-street parking are provided. A part-time manager will handle resident needs and concerns. Programs are offered daily at the Council on Aging across the parking lot and a riverfront walking trail is steps away. Rent includes all utilities. Income eligibility guidelines apply. Apartments are expected to be ready for occupancy in February 2007.

 

In a press release issued by DHCD, State Senator Bruce Tarr stated, “The Whipple School project is a prime example of smart planning; increasing housing opportunities for seniors helps to maintain an important part of the community, and the revitalization and reuse of existing community buildings represents innovative planning.”

Funding provided by

  • Federal Home Loan Bank
  • North Shore Bank
  • North Shore HOME Consortium
  • Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Housing and Community Development
  • Housing Stabilization Fund (HSF)
  • Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF)
  • Town of Ipswich
  • Coburn Charitable Trust
  • MassDevelopment
  • Local Initiatives Support Corporation

Architect: K.J. Savoie Architecture, Ipswich, MA
Engineer: Meridian Engineering
General Contractor: BWK Construction, Middleton, MA

Owner: Whipple Annex Housing LLC

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98 Central Street - Ipswich, MA

The Trust acquired 98 Central Street in Ipswich, a two-family home with a barn. The main building is being converted into two condominiums to be sold at 80 percent of the median income. The barn will be renovated to produce a third condominium for sale during 2007. Located in the downtown area, the development increases affordable homeownership opportunities as well as reuse a vacant structure.

Funding provided by

  • Ipswich Affordable Housing Trust Fund
  • Ipswich HOME Program
  • Ipswich Cooperative Bank
  • North Shore HOME Consortium
  • TD Banknorth Housing for All Grant Award

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