GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Healey-Driscoll administration has awarded $1.375 million to fund housing rehabilitation projects for income-eligible residents of Great Barrington, Egremont and Stockbridge.
The funds provide a 0 percent interest, deferred payment loan of up to $50,000, which is forgivable if the homeowner remains in the residence for at least 15 years. Applications will be made available before the end of this calendar year.
Funds cover building code repairs, weatherization, lead paint abatement, handicap accessibility and emergency funds for leaking roofs, failed furnaces and septic systems.
The funds come from a Community Development Block Grant, which will fund home improvements for up to 16 low-and moderate-income households.
"We are grateful to the Healey administration for its support of homeowners in our community," said Town Manager Mark Pruhenski. "As we work to support affordable rental housing in Great Barrington it's also essential to support homeowners who need financial support in making sure their homes are safe, healthy and energy efficient."
The town will open the application process within a few months, and will prioritize grants for correcting health and safety violations. Applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis.
Program details:
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The Regional Housing Rehab Program is a grant-funded program that provides eligible households with a 0% interest deferred payment forgivable loan of up to $50,000.
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Residents are accepted on a first-come/first-served basis and must be income eligible.
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The maximum eligible income for a two-person household is $70,110; $87,600 for a four person household.
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There is no cost to the town of Great Barrington.
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Residents repay a portion of the loan only if they sell their home within 15 years.
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A professional Program Manager and Rehab Specialist work with the homeowners on their approved project.
