Former St. Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School will be converted to 20 apartments.
The State of Connecticut has awarded The Connection up to $2.75 million to rehabilitate and convert the historic St. Mary Star of the Sea elementary school in the heart of New London to 20 units of affordable rental apartments. The rehabilitation of the school built in 1899, will preserve the building’s historic character. The project is within walking distance of many New London amenities, including transit, shopping, restaurants, employment centers, and medical facilities.The award is part of nearly $28 million in funding directed toward affordable housing projects in eight communities throughout the state that will create, rehabilitate or preserve approximately 200 units of affordable housing that focus on expanding access to transit-oriented development, creating new veteran’s housing units, and adding supportive housing for those who are living with disabilities. A portion of the apartments will be set aside to provide housing for chronically homeless individuals. The funding was made available under the state’s Competitive Housing Assistance for Multifamily Properties (CHAMP) program.
In making the announcement, Governor Dannel Malloy said, “Affordable housing is key to creating vibrant communities that attract families, workers, businesses, and private investments. Access to housing helps boost competitiveness, attracts business, and builds our economy. That’s why our administration has been so committed to making these critical investments.”
“We are delighted that the State of Connecticut has once again chosen to invest in The Connection. The beautiful St. Mary Star of the Sea property will not only help to fulfill the goal of ending chronic homelessness, but will also help The Connection fulfill its mission of “building safe, healthy, caring communities and inspiring people to fulfill their potential as productive and valued citizens,” said Connection President and CEO Peter Nucci.
Connecticut Department of Housing Commissioner Evonne M. Klein stated, “Affordable housing is a key component of economic growth and stability,” Commissioner Klein said. “These investments throughout the state ensure Connecticut’s continued economic recovery and the ability to remain an attractive state to call home, work, and raise a family. The CHAMP funding rounds provide an excellent opportunity for municipalities to attract a workforce, keep seniors in their community, give young families a start, and provide a home to someone who has been homeless. I am proud to say that we have made real progress when it comes to expanding access to affordable housing, while working to prevent and end homelessness.”
Many thanks to Connection Development Project Manager Beth Hogan for her work on this project.
Photo: Architectural rendering by Patriquin Architects