In pursuit of our mission to rehabilitate vacant, blighted buildings, Worcester Common Ground is hoping to convert an old razor factory and garage into a 31-unit affordable housing project. A One-Stop funding application was submitted to the Department of Community Housing and Development in February and we are awaiting their decision. Our plan is to rehabilitate this space by working within the already standing structure of 126 Chandler and demolishing 120 Chandler. We will then build outwards from 126 to create a 31 unit housing project that includes a combination of two, three, and four bedroom apartments. We recognize the demand for quality affordable housing in Worcester, notably Piedmont, and are working tirelessly to address the shortage. This space would be our first large-scale housing unit since 2010, with a 30 unit project at 9 May St. This building is close to Chandler Elementary school, accessible to major WRTA routes, and around the corner from our Bioshelter. Rehabilitating old buildings preserves the city’s architectural history while repurposing the space to address needs like affordable housing and community space. We are excited about including commercial and community space on the first floor and the potential for a rooftop garden – the first in the city!