Habitat for Humanity unveils plans for six-unit neighborhood on Route 28 South Yarmouth

The Town of Yarmouth held a government meeting on April 14, 2025, focusing on the proposed Habitat for Humanity neighborhood at 1121 Route 28 in South Yarmouth. The meeting featured discussions on project plans, community engagement, and the timeline for development.

The session began with an introduction from a town representative who presented elevation drawings and site plans for the proposed development. Noreen, a new representative from Habitat for Humanity, joined the discussion to provide updates on the project. She noted that the development is set to include six units, comprising a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom homes, designed to meet 60-80% of the area median income. The homes will feature sustainable elements, including solar panels and full basements, and will adhere to LEED standards.

Noreen explained that the project is currently awaiting the connection to the sewer system, which is a prerequisite for moving forward with the permitting process. She indicated that the goal is to complete the necessary applications and approvals by summer, allowing for infrastructure work to begin either later in the fall or early spring.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of community outreach. Noreen mentioned that previous meetings aimed at engaging local residents had low attendance, with no participants showing up for either an in-person or virtual meeting. She expressed a commitment to increasing community involvement as the project progresses, including seeking local sponsors and volunteers for the construction phase.

Accessibility was another key topic, with Noreen confirming that accommodations would be made for families with specific needs during the lottery process for home selection. The application process for potential homeowners includes a requirement for "sweat equity," where applicants must contribute a certain number of hours to the construction of their homes.

The meeting concluded with a focus on landscaping and fencing plans for the development. Concerns were raised about maintaining a residential feel while ensuring safety from traffic on Route 28. The representatives discussed the balance between visibility of the homes and the need for privacy and security for future residents.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Town of Yarmouth's commitment to affordable housing development through collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, while also addressing community concerns and ensuring sustainable practices in the project. Further updates and community engagement efforts are anticipated as the project moves forward.