Related Beal & DREAM Development Propose 400+ Units on Harrison Ave, Roxbury

Two development teams are vying to address historical disparities in Roxbury, Boston, by constructing hundreds of apartments and condominiums on a 4.4-acre site once marked by redlining practices. This initiative aims to foster wealth-building opportunities through real estate ownership for low- and moderate-income individuals.

Related Beal and DREAM Development's Proposal

Related Beal and DREAM Development propose constructing 402 units of affordable and workforce housing, including 79 home ownership units tailored for low- and moderate-income first-time buyers. Their plan emphasizes the significance of delivering affordable rental apartments and homeownership opportunities, showcasing a commitment to rectifying past urban renewal issues.

Development Details

The proposal outlines the construction of five 69-foot-tall buildings spanning 490,000 square feet, with an estimated project cost of $254 million. DREAM Development, led by Roxbury architect Greg Minott, collaborates with HYM Investment Group and My City at Peace on this venture, illustrating a multi-faceted approach to development.

Beacon Communities, Madison Park Development Corp., and JGE Development's Proposal

Another team, consisting of Beacon Communities, Madison Park Development Corp., and JGE Development, presents a plan for six buildings housing 383 units within a 403,352-square-foot development dubbed Reed Square. This proposal prioritizes housing affordability, particularly for households earning between 30 to 80 percent of the area median income.

Affordable Homeownership and Senior Housing

Both proposals include provisions for affordable homeownership units and senior housing, catering to different demographic needs within the community. Additionally, a savings match program is proposed to aid rental households in accumulating down payments, thereby enhancing accessibility to homeownership.

Community Engagement and City Initiatives

The two development teams will engage with the community through a virtual meeting scheduled for March 19, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and public input. The city's request for proposals aligns with broader urban development goals outlined in PLAN: Nubian Square and Roxbury Strategic Master Plan, emphasizing housing affordability, job creation, and community benefits.

The redevelopment of the Harrison Avenue site signifies a concerted effort by the city of Boston to utilize municipally-owned properties for housing production, addressing historical inequities while fostering inclusive and sustainable urban development.