HRA: Appleton Mills phase 1 on schedule; phase 2 demolition, site‑readiness funding remain unresolved

Holyoke Redevelopment Authority staff reported that the Appleton Mills phase 1 project is generally on track while discussions continue about how to prepare for phase 2, including possible demolition of two deteriorated buildings and a mix of funding approaches.

HRA staff said they and developer team members (identified in meeting materials as working with a developer named Hagop) continue biweekly meetings. Staff reported the ancillary building and one “show” apartment are slated to be completed in late spring or early summer, with final applications expected late summer and initial occupancy possibly beginning in early fall. Staff said recent work on the parking and curb infrastructure is largely complete and that the developer has secured an extension from the railroad to finish project work.

Board members and staff discussed phase 2 plans for two problematic structures — identified in staff comments as the smokestack building and a coal‑storage building — that sit between the VIN development and 101 Cabot. Staff said those buildings may be beyond practical rehabilitation for residential reuse and that demolition could create green space and access for phase 2. HRA staff and the developer have discussed potential cost‑sharing for…