Trust outlines goals for Risingdale ballfield; recommends 6–8 duplex-style units

The Great Barrington Affordable Housing Trust Fund reviewed a revised report on the Risingdale ballfield site during its May 19, 2026 meeting and recommended a project goal of six to eight affordable dwelling units, arranged as duplexes and sited to preserve a shared rear open space.

Fred Clark presented the report, which used a three-part framework—what fits the site, market constraints, and community input—to shape a statement of project goals that will inform a Request for Proposals. "The recommendation is to take advantage of the Residential Cluster Zoning to build units by right. Six to eight units of housing on the three-acre parcel would be compatible with the current density," Clark said, describing layouts that cluster buildings around a shared green.

The report described the site at 255 Park Street (roughly three acres and 410 feet of frontage), the zoning options (R‑1‑B / R‑2 by-right limits and Residential Cluster Development rules for larger proposals), and the cluster requirements that would apply if more than four dwelling units are pursued: 35% shared open space, limits on unit size (75% of units at 1,200 sf or less), clustered groupings and shared parking. The Trust discussed favoring 750–1,000 sf duplex units with shared party walls as the most cost-effective and neighborhood-compatible form.

Clark noted recent construction estimates of roughly $275–$375 per square foot, exclusive of land, and cautioned that those costs could create a funding gap for units that must remain affordable under 100% AMI income limits. The report used example AMI figures (2025) to show probable sale-price and rent ranges—estimating ownership support in the $250,000–$325,000 range depending on down payment and household size—and concluded that supplemental grant funding or other subsidy would likely be required to close the gap.

Trust members pressed for additional market research and construction expertise before finalizing an RFP; Peter Most asked what lessons Prosperity Way and recent Habitat projects offer about market demand. The Trust agreed to develop a draft RFP and to seek input from the Select Board and Planning Board. Clark also noted the Trust should consider nearby Town-owned parcels as part of future discussions.

The report emphasized community priorities captured in public input: infill-scale design that is compatible with existing one- and two-family housing, retention of perimeter trees and green buffers, and preservation of shared open space. The Trust did not take a formal vote to approve a final development plan; the next procedural steps are further market analysis, refinement of an RFP, and outreach to potential funding partners.

Provenance: First presented and discussed starting SEG 002; report text and recommendations appear through SEG 007.