WORCESTER—Construction is expected to start in early September on a significant redevelopment project in Worcester’s Lincoln Square that aims to provide affordable housing for seniors while preserving a piece of the city’s history.
The F.W. Madigan Company, which announced the news on Tuesday, oversees the transformation of the former Worcester Boys Club building, a 59,000-square-foot historic structure, into modern residential units. The project also includes the construction of a connected five-story, 63,000-square-foot building that will partially extend over the Ernest A. Johnson Tunnel.
Once completed, the development will offer a total of 80 affordable apartments comprised of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units tailored for adults aged 55 and above. Residents have access to a range of amenities, including an exercise room, multipurpose room, mailroom, garage, and two outdoor patios, designed to foster a comfortable and community-oriented living environment.
“We are excited to begin this important project in the heart of the city,” said Jim Madigan, CEO of F.W. Madigan Company in a press release. “Over the next 20 months, the view north from Lincoln Square will dramatically transform as we construct much-needed urban residences here in downtown Worcester.”
Maugel DeStefano Architects has been brought on as the design lead for the project, tasked with integrating environmentally sustainable features that meet the rigorous standards of the Passive House Institute US (Phius), according to an announcement. These standards focus on energy efficiency, sustainability throughout the building’s lifecycle, and high-performance building envelopes and systems.
The development is being spearheaded by WinnCompanies, a Boston-based firm known for its work in affordable and mixed-income housing. WinnCompanies also developed and manages the adjacent Voke Lofts, further contributing to the revitalization of the Lincoln Square area.
The project represents a collaborative effort to address the growing need for affordable senior housing in Worcester while respecting and preserving the city’s architectural heritage. By combining historic preservation with modern, sustainable design, the development aims to enhance the livability and appeal of the downtown area for current and future residents.
Construction is expected to take approximately 20 months, with the new residences scheduled to welcome tenants upon completion. The project underscores Worcester’s ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing options and revitalizing historic neighborhoods through thoughtful development and community partnership.
Send your news releases, tips, jokes and anything else you’d like to talk about to Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
