GREENFIELD, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — The state has awarded $5.7 million to support the preservation and rehabilitation of the Winslow, an affordable housing property in Greenfield. The project will include an energy overhaul to reduce consumption by at least 40%, elevator modernication, and site upgrades. 

From the Greenfield Housing Authority:

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $5.7 Million to The Winslow

Greenfield, MA — The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $5.7 million to support the preservation and rehabilitation of The Winslow, a vital affordable housing property located in downtown Greenfield. Sponsored by Greenfield Housing Associates, Inc. (GHAI)—a nonprofit affiliate of the Greenfield Housing Authority—this project will ensure the continued affordability and livability of 55 rental units.

The Winslow will maintain deep affordability with:
• 20 units reserved for residents earning at or below 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
• 10 units for those under 50% of AMI
• 25 units for residents at or below 60% of AMI

A Historic Landmark with a Renewed Purpose

Originally opened in November 1917 as the Mohawk Chambers, the building has served the community under various names, including Hotel Winslow (1927), the Stearns Hotel (1940s), and HARCO Rooms (1950). Today, The Winslow comprises two connected structures: a four-story historic wood-framed, brick masonry building at the front, and a two-story wood-framed, brick veneer addition built in 2010.

Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Sustainability Upgrades

The rehabilitation will include a deep energy retrofit designed to reduce energy consumption by over 40%. Upgrades will target heating systems, hot water infrastructure, and insulation. The project will also pursue Enterprise Green Communities Certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Key improvements include:
• Elevator modernization, including new cab, finishes, equipment, and hydraulics.
• Site upgrades, such as repaving the parking lot, new sidewalks, and a new accessible ramp.
• Common area renovations, with updated flooring and fresh paint throughout.
• Building envelope enhancements, including new windows, a new roof with added insulation, and repairs to the stone foundation to improve water tightness and energy efficiency.

Supportive Housing and Community Integration

Beyond physical improvements, the project’s operating budget will expand services provided through GHAI’s existing Stabilization Program. These enhancements will support long-term housing stability for tenants, particularly those who have experienced chronic homelessness or have special needs.

With this transformation into a Permanent Supportive Housing model, The Winslow will serve a community of residents who are no longer homeless but are now stable, engaged, and contributing members of society—working, volunteering, studying, or participating in meaningful activities.

GHAI will partner with a local supportive services provider to offer monthly health professional-led support groups and train resident leaders to facilitate peer-led groups. These peer support initiatives will foster recovery, build social networks, and promote community living.

Acknowledgments and Partnerships

The Board of Directors of Greenfield Housing Associates, Inc. (GHAI) and Executive Director Jack Redman extend their sincere gratitude to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities Ed Augustus, and the dedicated team at the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Special thanks are also extended to the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC) for their invaluable predevelopment financial support.

GHAI also acknowledges the critical contributions of development consultant Kathleen Lingenberg of Community Outcomes LLC, architect Chris Novelli of N3 Architecture, and Attorney Ellen Freyman of Shatz, Schwartz, and Fentin, P.C. Appreciation is further extended to Mayor Virginia “Ginny” Desorgher, the Greenfield Community Preservation Committee and Housing Greenfield for their steadfast support and partnership in making this project possible.