The need for new housing, especially affordable housing, is a pressing issue in Massachusetts, particularly in urban areas. Epsilon has been a part of many projects across the Commonwealth, including renovations of historic buildings, development of new affordable housing, replacement of existing public housing, and new 40B projects.

Recently, Epsilon has been providing Article 80 and MEPA consulting services for the Mildred C. Hailey Phase One Development in the Jackson Square neighborhood of Boston. Epsilon also provided Article 80 consulting services for the 3368 Washington Street project, which will include Supportive Housing units for individuals served by the Pine Street Inn, and low- and moderate-income residential units.

Epsilon’s historic tax credit (HTC) practice has completed hundreds of HTC projects across the Commonwealth that include affordable housing. These projects promote both historic preservation and the creation of new housing, revitalizing neighborhoods.

Epsilon has prepared HTC and permitting applications for affordable housing projects too numerous to count, both in cities and towns, throughout New England, over the past 20 years.

The proposed redevelopment of 2 Harbor Street in the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park in Boston’s Seaport recently received its final approval from the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) Board.

Epsilon led the complicated permitting effort for the project at both the city and state levels. Being sited within the Marine Park, the project was subject to the requirements of the Marine Park Master Plan (which is currently being updated), Chapter 91 Waterways Regulations, as well as other city and state requirements. Epsilon filed a Notice of Project Change with MEPA, as well as a Draft and Final Environmental Impact Report, completing the Final EIR in just two weeks after receipt of the Certificate on the Draft EIR was issued. At the city-level, Epsilon prepared the Expanded Project Notification Form under Article 80 filings for submittal to the BPDA.

This project is notable for its substantial energy savings. Because of their heavy demand, lab/offices pose challenges to reduce energy consumption and concomitant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The project will incorporate an innovative curtain wall design, rooftop solar panels, and energy recovery in the ventilation system along with other features that will enable it to achieve a nearly 30% reduction in GHG emissions compared to a “base-case” building design.

340 Main Street in Worcester was initially constructed circa 1895 and designed by the renowned architecture firm of Peabody and Stearns. At nine stories tall, it was Worcester’s first skyscraper and home to the State Mutual Life Insurance Company. Presently, the building is being utilized for office and retail space and will ultimately be converted to a mixed-use development with the addition of residential units.

This is one of numerous active Epsilon projects in Worcester, with other nearby projects on Main Street. Epsilon is proud to help preserve and rehabilitate historic buildings in the City of Worcester and contribute to its revitalization.