Smith College Supports Affordable Housing in Downtown Northampton

September 3, 2019  

Smith College Supports Affordable Housing in Downtown Northampton

HUD User publishes a series of case studies based on federal, state, and local strategies that increase affordable housing opportunities and support community development. The projects and community development efforts featured in these reports have demonstrated innovation through a multitude of partnerships and initiatives.

One of the nation's largest all women's schools, Smith College, has a long history of making donations to support cultural and economic growth in the city of Northampton, Massachusetts. Beginning in 2005, Smith entered into a 30-year development agreement with the city to help fund affordable housing projects for low- and middle-income households. In 2016, Smith's donation to nonprofit developers and partners, Valley Community Development Corporation and Way Finders, helped finance the Lumber Yard — a mixed-use project with 55 affordable rental units and 5,400 square feet of first-floor retail space. As part of a multiyear effort to revitalize one of Northampton's major downtown corridors, the Lumber Yard includes street improvements such as raised crosswalks, curb extensions, improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities, new onstreet parking, and updated landscaping.

Visit HUD User's Case Studies page to learn more about emerging practices to improve social outcomes through housing-focused partnerships..

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