MassHousing has closed $28.9 million in loans to renovate and preserve nearly 500 public housing apartments in East Boston and Dorchester.
The 294-unit Heritage Apartments in East Boston will receive a $19.9 million construction and permanent loan, and the 177-unit Lower Mills Apartments in Dorchester will get a $9 million construction and permanent loan, according to a statement. Both apartment communities, which are occupied by elderly and disabled residents, are owned by the Boston Housing Authority and are undergoing renovations and energy efficiency upgrades.
"MassHousing’s financing will help completely renovate and upgrade these two valuable public housing resources for elderly and disabled residents in East Boston and Dorchester," said MassHousing Executive Director Thomas R. Gleason. "These improvements will ensure that these affordable housing communities will continue to serve the residents in these neighborhoods for many years to come."
Improvements being implemented in the two public housing communities include:
- New heating systems
- Building envelope repair and window replacement
- New plumbing fixtures with low-flow toilets and aerators for sinks, tubs, showers and lavatories to reduce water consumption
- Kitchen and bathroom upgrades
- Common area improvements
