The Lowell City Council on Nov. 25 approved an amendment to the River's Edge (Julian D. Steel) development plan that will allow Residents First Development Corporation to add 32 owner-occupied, income-restricted units to the project. Attorney John Geary said approval was needed to move forward with permitting and funding; he told the council the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities and the housing authority have already approved the amendment.

"The amended plan would allow the construction of a total of 187 dwelling units," attorney John Geary said. The project currently has 155 constructed and occupied units; the final phase will add 32 owner-occupied, income-restricted condominium units.

Councilors voiced support for the amendment as a way to advance affordable homeownership. Councilor Young, chair of the housing subcommittee, said the units will carry "30-year deed restrictions to guarantee long-term affordability" and described the change as "a meaningful step forward for affordable homeownership in the city." The council also heard a statement from Gerald Bonds, who said he owns Lot 122 and raised questions about historical agreements; Geary responded that Lot 122 is not part of the current amendment and that legal concerns about that lot would need separate review.

Councilors asked about marketing and selection; Geary said the Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership will assist with outreach and a lottery structure will be used to sell units to area residents with incomes in the range of about 70% to 100% of area median income.

Roll-call voting recorded 11 yeas; the amendment was adopted. Geary said the vote allows Residents First to pursue final permitting and funding steps with state agencies and the housing authority.

Next steps: Residents First will proceed with permitting and funding processes; the council and planning board will be engaged as needed for final approvals.