Synopsis:

After two years of planning since the city’s approval for the project, construction is slated to begin this spring to convert the old A.H. Rice Mill in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Rees-Larkin Development of Boston has already received some funding through state and federal historic tax credits, but the biggest hurdle has been to get the award of $8.1 million in affordable housing tax credits from the commonwealth’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Making up a large portion of the projected $13 redevelopment costs, this funding has been integral to start the process. The developer is certain that they will receive the funding which will be announcing later this year.

The old silk mill, vacant for five years, will be adapted into 45 units of affordable housing as the new Rice Silk Mill Apartments. The project will help to provide much-needed affordable housing within the community as well as encourage further revitalization of the Morningside neighborhood where it is located. A majority of the mill will be utilized in the redevelopment, though a small, non-historic structures will be taken down to allow for the creation of a courtyard and green space.