Residents of the Fairlawn Estates in Mattapan can finally breathe a sigh of relief after years of battling rent increases and eviction threats. In a groundbreaking move, Mayor Michelle Wu announced on Monday that the 350-unit market-rate housing complex will be permanently converted into affordable homes. This momentous decision comes as a beacon of hope for residents who have long struggled to maintain their place in the neighborhood without the looming fear of being priced out.
The city of Boston made a significant investment of $10 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to support Related Beal in acquiring the Fairlawn Estates, ensuring the preservation of affordable housing in the community. This initiative is part of the city’s Acquisition Opportunity Program, which aims to assist developers in purchasing and safeguarding existing affordable housing units. The funding for this project was sourced from a combination of city funds, private investments, and loans, with a substantial commitment from the newly established Boston Acquisition Fund.
The Fairlawn Estates, comprising 12 apartment buildings and a leasing office located on Fairlawn Avenue, Cummins Highway, and Bismarck Street, has been a vital part of the Mattapan community since its construction in the 1960s by the Flatley Companies. However, the landscape changed drastically in 2018 when a commuter rail stop was introduced near the complex, leading to its acquisition by an investor group and subsequent rebranding as SoMa at the T. This transition resulted in soaring rents and a wave of evictions that threatened the stability of the residents.
Related Affordable, an affiliate of Related Beal, stepped in as the new owner with a commitment to permanently designate all 350 units as affordable housing. Kimberly Sherman Stamler, president of Related Beal, emphasized the company’s dedication to providing sustainable living solutions in crucial locations like Mattapan. Plans are underway to invest $6.4 million in immediate repairs and upgrades to the buildings, including essential maintenance tasks like roof replacements, balcony repairs, and appliance upgrades, as well as improvements to enhance energy efficiency.
Under the new ownership, half of the apartments will be reserved for households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income, while the remaining units will cater to those with incomes up to 80% of the AMI. Additionally, rent increases will be capped at 2% per year, offering residents much-needed stability in their housing costs. The agreement with Related also includes ongoing support for households utilizing housing vouchers, ensuring that the community remains inclusive and accessible to all.
This transformative conversion to affordable housing is the culmination of years of tireless advocacy and grassroots organizing by Fairlawn tenants, City Life/Vida Urbana, and supportive neighbors in Mattapan. Betty Lewis, a member of the Fairlawn Tenant Association, expressed the collective sentiment of the community, stating, “Housing is a human right, and we can win the homes we deserve.” The victory achieved through community solidarity serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that can be made when neighbors come together to fight for a common cause.
In a world where affordable housing is increasingly scarce, the conversion of the Fairlawn Estates stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience of communities facing housing insecurity. The commitment to preserving affordable housing in Mattapan not only secures the future of its residents but also sets a precedent for equitable development practices that prioritize the well-being of all community members. As the city continues to navigate the complexities of housing affordability, initiatives like the Fairlawn conversion serve as a shining example of what can be achieved through collective action and unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
