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HRA reports progress on South Holyoke Homes, Glen Development and phase-two planning
Summary
Staff reported property transfers complete for South Holyoke Homes homeownership phases, lottery activity for Glen Development units, and ongoing planning and funding discussions for phase two demolition and site work, including ARPA and potential brownfields funds.
HRA staff updated the board on construction and occupancy milestones for South Holyoke Homes and Glen Development and discussed next steps and potential funding for phase-two site work and demolition.
South Holyoke Homes: staff said the authority's property transfers tied to South Holyoke Homes are complete and that the developer is accepting homeownership applications and starting occupancy processes. Phase 3 reviews were described as underway and staff said homes on the train-and-church lots now have two completed units.
Glen Development (Allison Street): staff reported that Glen Development conducted a lottery for an 86-unit development that received just over 200 applications; selected applicants are being verified for income eligibility and alternate applicants will be kept on a waiting list. Negotiations with the railroad over site access continue; staff said the railroad appears to favor a long-term lease over a sale and discussions remain ongoing.
Phase 2 site work and demolition: HRA staff said Twin (project partner) is refining environmental work for Buildings 1 and 2 and that the authority may be asked to help cover funding shortfalls for site work or demolition depending on final estimates. Staff prepared an ARPA application for demolition and noted $1.5 million in ARPA-related interest funds were available; the mayor is considering a $200,000 allocation toward demolition if other confirmations arrive by October, with a possible $400,000 ask if not.
Brownfields and funding: staff said the developer is evaluating a MassDevelopment brownfields grant to support remediation and site work. The HRA noted it may return to the board if phase-two funding gaps emerge.
Other notes: staff mentioned a local appearance—South Holyoke Homes featured on a regional program—and confirmed the project has begun accepting applications for homeownership.
Ending: staff will continue biweekly coordination calls with project partners, refine environmental and demolition estimates for phase two, and report back to the HRA if funding requests or gaps require board action.
