City of Medford advances mixed-income housing development in Liberty Park

The Medford City Council convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss a significant development project aimed at revitalizing a blighted area in Liberty Park. The council is considering a proposal to transform five city-owned parcels into moderate-income multifamily housing, addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in the community.

The property, which has a complicated historical title due to past city actions dating back to the 1920s, has undergone significant changes. The city has acquired the parcels, demolished three dilapidated residential structures, and resolved title issues. The council is now looking to partner with local developer Werner Constanza of Better Built Construction, who has expressed interest in constructing a series of three-story, 12-unit apartment buildings on the site.

Council members discussed the financial aspects of the project, including the possibility of providing upfront funding for design work and paying System Development Charges (SDCs) to facilitate the development. This approach mirrors a previous successful project, the Genesis Apartments, where the city provided similar financial assistance. The council is weighing the risks and benefits of fronting these costs, with the aim of ensuring the project aligns with community needs and standards.

Another point of discussion was whether to open the project to competitive bidding. While some council members expressed concern about limiting options by working exclusively with Constanza, others emphasized the importance of moving forward with a developer who has a clear vision for the site. The council is considering forming a subcommittee to further explore the proposal and gather additional input.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the importance of this project in addressing housing shortages and revitalizing the Liberty Park area. The next steps will involve further discussions on the financial commitments and potential partnerships, with the goal of transforming the site into a vibrant residential community that meets the needs of Medford residents.