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In 2016, B’nai B’rith Housing was selected by the Swampscott Board of Selectmen to redevelop The Machon Elementary School into 38 one-bedroom units of senior affordable rental housing. Development plans for the The Machon will preserve the original 1920’s building, replace the 1963 addition, and feature landscaped site design which emphasizes a strong green connection between the site, the neighborhood, and public open space. Permits were received in the fall of 2017, and state funding was approved in July 2019 clearing the way for construction to begin. In June 0f 2021 construction was complete and lease-up began for a fully occupied building in August 2021.
BBH’s award-winning, service enriched housing model creates high-quality, affordable housing where seniors can thrive and participate fully in their community. The Machon will feature facilities and amenities to bring residents together including a community room, library/screening room, and fitness center. In addition, all residents will have access to a full-time, on-site service coordinator who can connect them to area resources and service providers as well as facilitate social, cultural and healthy lifestyle activities.
Community Need & Public Benefits: Almost 25% of Swampscott households have a senior member, and over 50% of these include a senior living alone. Currently, one third of Swampscott households over 65 years old earn less than $40,000/year. Additionally, Swampscott senior households are projected to make up over half of all households by 2030. The proposed ground lease would allow the town of Swampscott to retain ownership with an upfront payment of $500,000 and annual real estate taxes paid to town. An additional $50,000 is proposed for off-site improvements.
Awards: 2022 Vanguard Award for Major Rehabilitation of a Historic Structure into Affordable Rental Housing by the National Affordable Housing Management Association (NAHMA)
