What an incredible time we had with you all last night in Bellows Falls! Thank you to all who came and to all who sent their well wishes. We were blown away by the attendance and support and we were incredibly proud to show off the beautiful Bellows Falls Garage. We look forward with great anticipation to June 1st when 27 households settle into their new homes!
“It’s actually astonishing how much collective creativity, commitment and resources it took to bring us to this moment when we can celebrate together.” Elizabeth Bridgewater, Executive Director of Windham & Windsor Housing Trust remarked, “This is the prize we’ve had our eye on over this 4-year journey, new beautiful homes that community members can afford. It feels so good to be here now, but it’s going to feel even better when the keys are handed over to the new residents in June.”
The evening included music by the Milkhouse Heaters, remarks from officials, funders, and community members, self guided tours of the finished 4th floor apartments, a story-telling booth hosted by FACTV to preserve the stories of the old building, and two rolling slideshows one of historic pictures of the building and the other of the construction.
The nearly 150 attendees enjoyed food from local eateries, China Garden (abutting neighbor), Lisai’s Deli, and Allen Brothers, and enjoyed the swag bags featuring art from local artist Mindy Fisher. We have the bags and t-shirts available to order online through Clever Cow in Springfield– proceeds go to creating more affordable housing opportunities in Windham & Windsor counties!
Thank you to the funders and design & construction team members!
Development Consultant: J. D. Kantor, Inc
Designers: gbA Architects, Engineering Ventures,
Engineering Services of Vermont, Dufresne Group
Construction Manager: DEW Construction
Equity Investor / Construction Lender: M & T Bank
Funders :
Vermont Housing Finance Agency
Vermont Housing & Conservation Board
Vermont Community Development Program
Town of Rockingham
Vermont Department of Economic Development –
Brownfield Revitalization Fund – State Program
Vermont Community Loan Fund
US Dept. of HUD – HOME Program
National Housing Trust Fund
NeighborWorks America
Efficiency Vermont
Windham Regional Commission
Property Manager: Stewart Property Management
