Apartment Look

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts’ booming economy is bringing with it a downside for those looking to rent an apartment or buy a home in the state: soaring housing costs , particularly in the greater Boston area . The problem isn’t new, but it’s more acute in places where the economy has taken off, spurred by a surge in the life sciences sector and the arrival of top companies like General Electric to the state. That upward pressure is one reason why Beacon Hill leaders are continuing to look for ways to create new affordable housing units while preserving existing units . Gov. Charlie Baker this week announced $72 million in housing subsidy funds and additional state and federal tax credits to 25 projects across the state. The goal is to help create, refurbish and preserve 1, 970 housing units , including units reserved for low- income families and families making their way out of homelessness. Advertisement “Safe and affordable housing is a cornerstone to the success of our commo...

The Bay State’s booming economy is bringing with it a downside for those looking to rent an apartment or buy a home in the state: soaring housing costs , particularly in Greater Boston. The problem isn’t new, but it’s more acute in places where the economy has taken off, spurred by a surge in the life sciences sector and the arrival of top companies like General Electric. That upward pressure is one reason why Beacon Hill leaders are continuing to look for ways to create new affordable housing units while preserving existing units . Gov. Charlie Baker this week announced $72 million in housing subsidy funds and additional state and federal tax credits to 25 projects across the state. The goal is to help create, refurbish and preserve 1, 970 housing units , including units reserved for low- income families and families making their way out of homelessness. “Safe and affordable housing is a cornerstone to the success of our commonwealth’s families, including access to job opportu...

Council Member Laurie Cumbo (@cmlauriecumbo) Hundreds of Crown Heights residents and community activists laughed and jeered at a recent community forum as a lanky man wearing a paper mask of Mayor Bill de Blasio joked about bringing affordable housing to their neighborhood. The event was punctuated by moments of levity but mostly dominated by anger from residents who feel their elected representatives have sold out their interests to the real estate industry , with a focus on the proposed redevelopment of the vacant Bedford Union Armory . The de Blasio administration , with a developer, is proposing a combination of affordable and market rate rental apartments , condominium units, and recreation space for the massive site. City Council Member Laurie Cumbo , who represents the district, did not attend the August 2 forum focused on the project -- she was just days from giving birth to a son -- and when representatives of her office tried to speak, they were shouted down. The ev...

Marquette Mayor Dave Campana introduces Snyder at a press meet after his tour of the apartments, and explains the importance of providing affordable housing in close proximity to the downtown area. (Journal photo by Rachel Oakley) Marquette Mayor Dave Campana introduces Snyder at a press meet after his tour of the apartments, and explains the importance of providing affordable housing in close proximity to the downtown area. (Journal photo by Rachel Oakley) Snyder speaks with Roger Curtis, Director of Talent and Economic Development for the State of Michigan outside of the Grandview Marquette , which is still undergoing construction. The apartments are intended to give low-income individuals in Marquette easier access to opportunities in the downtown area. The project is expected to be completed this fall. (Journal photo by Rachel Oakley) MARQUETTE — Gov. Rick Snyder and other state officials Wednesday morning toured the affordable housing development Grandview Marquette , whi...