The historic New Britain factory in Connecticut, known for making household items like irons and coffee percolators, is being turned into affordable house units. WinnDevelopment officials and representatives from the state and city of Connecticut gathered today to break ground on an $85 million project in New Britain, marking a significant milestone for the project. The project, led by WinnDevelopment, will convert the old Landers, Frary, and Clark plant into apartments for 154 families. The New Britain factory, which was built in 1908, will be transformed into 79 one-bedroom, 59 two-bedroom, and 16 three-bedroom apartments. These affordable houses will be sold to young professionals, lower- and middle-income households, and elderly individuals with fixed incomes.
The New Britain factory renovation to affordable houses project received significant financial support from the state and federal governments. The state Department of Housing contributed around $7.9 million. And the project was awarded tax credits for historic preservation and funding from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority. The city also provided a phased property tax plan, which will save the developer a significant amount of money.
More on the New Britain factory renovation project into affordable houses
WinnDevelopment plans to preserve the new Britain’s factory historic exterior while making the interior suitable for modern houses. The renovated building will have energy-efficient features like a solar array, electric vehicle charging stations, and Energy Star appliances. Residents in the new affordable houses will also have access to amenities such as a fitness center, community room, game room, and outdoor lounging areas. Parking spaces will be available for 230 vehicles.
Read also:Â Phase One of 43 Green Affordable Homes Development in Chicago Complete.
Seila Mosquera-Bruno, the state’s housing commissioner, highlighted the importance of creating new housing in the region. She emphasized that transforming the old factory into affordable homes helps maintain the city’s character while addressing the housing needs of its residents. The transformation of the historic factory into affordable housing brings hope and a brighter future for New Britain. That is providing comfortable houses for families in need.
