The Back Story
50 years ago, land was taken by eminent domain to make way for a proposed eight-lane extension of I-95.
JP residents joined with people from other communities to prevent the highway from being built. But hundreds of homes, including those on these parcels, had already been bulldozed. Learn more in these articles: JP Historical Society 2014; Architecture Boston 2012; JP Gazette 2013
In mid-2017, the Mass. Dept. of Transportation (MassDOT) announced its intention to sell parcels to the the highest bidder
Community voices make a difference again! Because of the advocacy of JPNDC and dedicated local residents, MassDOT ultimately required that at least six affordable homes be built on the parcels.
In July 2018, MassDot sold its Call St./Carolina Ave. parcels to JPNDC!
In addition to the purchase of the Mass DOT parcels, JPNDC purchased a City-owned parcel in June 2019, and completed a land swap with an abutter in September 2019.
Project Details
Eight new affordable homes in Jamaica Plain
All units to be sold to first-time buyers: six at maximum household income of 80% of Area Median Income, two at maximum household income of 100% of Area Median Income
Environmentally friendly design and construction (adhering to LEED and Energy Star standards)
JPNDC commitment to exceeding City goals regarding construction diversity goals (see track record)
Process and Timeline
Construction start: October 2019
Application period: March 18 through April 23, 2021
Application link: https://www.boston.gov/news/new-housing-lottery-call-carolina-condos
Completion June 2021, occupancy fall 2021
For more information, contact Matt Henzy at mhenzy@jpndc.org.
Project Fact Sheet
June 26, 2018: presentation to abutters’ meeting sponsored by Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood services
June 6, 2018: presentation to the JP Neighborhood Council Zoning Committee (the committee endorsed our proposal)
Tree Assessment Report & Recommendations, April 30, 2018
MEDIA
“The First CPA Grants are Revealed,” The Boston Globe, June 17, 2018
“Watermark Development and JPNDC team up for affordable housing,” The Bulletin, 1/25/18
“MassDOT picks buyers for JP parcels,” JP Gazette, 12/22/17
“MassDOT Oakdale Street Parcel to Remain Community Garden; Four Parcels Sold,” JP Gazette, 12/8/17
“Residents demand affordable housing for DOT land,” JP Gazette, 6/23/17
Civil Engineer: Fraser Poly-Engineering Services
Green Consultant: CLEAResult