Brickpoint Properties, Inc., recently unveiled Phase I of a multi-million dollar renovation project at Burlington’s Beacon Village, aimed at bringing the once-desirable location back to its original appeal. The company embarked on this initiative in spite of the obvious question, "Who would do this now?"
Although a number of commercial construction projects are faltering, Brickpoint’s endeavor remains on track to be completed over the next 24 months. The projects developers say the timing will mean the housing complex will be completed just as the economy is expected to be regaining most of its steam.
Brickpoint’s decision to move ahead is reinforcing for investors and the community that the developer is confident in the project. With the completion of Phase I, it’s evident that efforts to bring the weathered brown buildings back to life and infuse new energy into this 37-year old complex is proceeding. Brickpoint is bringing the property back in style.
"We hope the glamour once associated with living at Beacon Village will return," said Coleen McAnespie, property manager. "From the updated facades and newly enclosed entryways, to the pool house, club house, fitness facility and mail facility, we’re bringing back the allure of the property for current and future residents and the community they live in."
Beacon Village, in its heyday, was considered "The Place to Live" in the Burlington area. The first apartment complex in the area to offer apartments styles that were a departure from the typical brick-faced, three-story, garden-style apartment complexes, the property offered a new and different option to apartment dwellers.
Over the years, however, the complex wore down with use and disrepair. The current project is meant to restore the village’s appeal.
On hand for the unveiling event which showcased the progress of the project were local organizations, town officials, architects and investors including Gary Leach, Nicholas Moise and James Partridge of Eastern Bank, lender for the majority owner, and James Petri of Cambridge Savings Bank, who were given a tour of the property focusing on how Beacon Village is providing a more beautiful and eco-friendly environment for residents and the surrounding community.
With the completion of Phase I and the on-going revitalization over the next two phases, the project will result in bright exteriors covered with environmentally friendly materials, windows fitted with energy-efficient replacements and front and back entryways redesigned and enclosed providing a sheltered entrance for residents.
Work on the project began in late 2007 and is scheduled for completion in 2011.
