The Eighteen & Union housing development is now open in downtown New Bedford.
Banner printing is often used at such sites to inform residents and visitors of the completion of projects.
This project completely renovated the underutilized and vacant properties on Commercial Street and created 28 new apartments. It is at the intersection of JFK Boulevard/Route 18 and Union Street, in a highly visible location in the downtown area. Lafrance Hospitality was the developer of the project.
The project included a granite building, which was the home of Beckman Marine Supply and a building with a wood frame previously owned by the company. The granite and wood were restored to preserve the historic appeal of the area. The National Club Building was also included in the project.
Both public and private resources were used to fund the project. The Expansion Initiative and Vacant or Abandoned Property Rehabilitation Program in the city contributed $2.85m, while other investments came from BayCoast Bank, Lafrance Hospitality, federal and state tax credits, and other private investments.
Mayor Jon Mitchell said that Eighteen & Union is the latest example of the successful utilization by the city of both federal and other funding to transform vacant and underutilized buildings into new units of housing. He added that this building will greet visitors and residents crossing from the waterfront and will acts as the gateway to downtown.
