Boston: Mayor Wu, Senator Markey, Congressman Lynch Announce Federal Funding to Renovate Public Housing in North End

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~ Yesterday, Mayor Michelle Wu joined Senator Ed Markey, Congressman Stephen Lynch, and the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) to announce new federal funding for Ausonia Homes, a 100-unit public housing community for low-income seniors and people with disabilities in the North End.

Mayor Wu expressed her appreciation for the congressional delegation's efforts in securing two grants worth $1.75 million towards modernization and upgrades at Ausonia Homes. "Boston residents across every neighborhood deserve the opportunity to age in place, and to do so in quality, accessible and affordable homes," said Mayor Wu. "Communities like Ausonia are critical for older adults, people with disabilities and families to afford to live and thrive in the North End. That is Ausonia's promise, and I want to thank Boston's congressional delegation for securing these critical investments which will ensure Boston remains a city for everyone."

Senator Markey commented on the importance of this funding in light of the climate crisis. "As Boston contends with encroaching seas, coastal flooding, and scorching summers, we know the climate crisis is not on our doorsteps—it is in our homes. Our shelters must be sheltered from this storm. That's why I'm so proud to be with Boston's own Green New Deal Mayor as we partner to advance the vision for a cleaner, greener and healthier City and Commonwealth. We can and we must ensure all people—no matter their age, race, income or disability—are part of that vision," said Senator Markey.

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Congressman Lynch also expressed his gratitude for being able to secure this funding which will improve air quality as well as reduce energy consumption at Ausonia Homes. "Since Ausonia Apartments opened its doors 45 years ago, federal public housing capital subsidies have not kept up with the needs of the property and I am proud to have secured $1.75M for its modernization," said Rep. Lynch. "This funding is essential to improving the quality of life for its residents."

BHA Administrator Kate Bennett also shared her appreciation for this investment into Ausonia Homes which will help leverage additional resources towards a comprehensive modernization effort while preserving affordability as well as improving resident health and quality of life. "Ausonia is one of the few places in the North end that low-income seniors can afford to live," said Bennett. "I am grateful for the federal delegation prioritizing this critical resource and this wonderful community."

Cheryl Iftikar from Ausonia Tenant Task Force expressed her excitement about seeing their homes get fixed up through renovations that will improve air quality as well as ensure full compliance with modern accessibility standards. "We're very excited to see our homes get fixed up," said Iftikar. "The building really needs to be upgraded but this is an investment in more than just a building; it's an investment in us and our home."

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The work at Ausonia is still in its planning stages but improvements are expected to include better insulation and heating systems as well as renovated apartment units that prioritize resident health and wellbeing. With these investments into Ausonia Homes from federal funding secured by Boston's congressional delegation, it ensures that low-income seniors can continue living comfortably while having access to quality housing options within their community

Filed Under: Government, City

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