The Healey-Driscoll Administration has recently taken a significant step towards alleviating Boston’s housing crunch by pushing forward with a new affordable housing project on the grounds of the former Boston State Hospital. The state government, realizing the acute need for more affordable living spaces, has sold a 10-acre tract of land to Lena New Boston II and 2Life Development Inc. According to Mass.gov, this initiative is set to birth Olmsted Village – a residential development promising 287 homes, with an impressive 86% earmarked as permanently affordable housing.
Amid a time where housing prices continue an inexorable climb, the idea of Olmsted Village could serve as a beacon of hope. The venture encompasses three major components: Brooke House, with 127 affordable units for seniors; Treehouse, a four-story edifice featuring 66 affordable intergenerational units; and a plan for 94 mixed-income homeownership units. Governor Maura Healey, highlighted the aim for this project to foster an environment where “seniors and young people alike to build their futures.” This milestone aligns with the state’s broader initiative known as State Land for Homes, expediting housing development on surplus state-owned land.
Accompanying the housing, the project boasts numerous amenities designed to enhance community well-being. Residents can look forward to an intermodal pathway to Harvard Street and the Boston Nature Center, shuttle services, two community centers, and a childcare facility. Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll was quoted by Mass.gov, lauding the project as a means to provide homes for vulnerable residents and championing the use of public lands for public benefit…