MBTA announces new development project in Attleboro, includes affordable housing

ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WLNE) — A new housing development in Attleboro has the goal of making it easier to take a job in the city.

The city alongside the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority announced a redevelopment plan to build up to 600 housing units right next to the Attleboro train station.

“These collaborative agreements are a testament to the power of partnerships and addressing the housing crisis and improving quality of life for our riders and our neighbors,” MBTA CEO and General Manager Phillip Eng said.

The process involved cleaning up a site that had seen contamination from industrial use.

“The construction of a large mixed-use development project that will combine retail, restaurant, office and entertainment space, with 600-plus residential units above, all of which, I will add, is within walking distance to the transit system,” Mayor Cathleen DeSimone said.

The MBTA said “many” of the housing units will be affordable.

As for what’s next, the redevelopment authority will look for a development team to take on the project. The team will be tasked with including a minimum percentage of affordable units and open space.

“We need to make sure that we combine this transfer of land with passage of the Affordable Homes Act,” Massachusetts Secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities Ed Augustus said. “We are going to be here with you, the City of Attleboro, every step of the way.”

Eng announced the South Attleboro train station will be resuming commuter rail service starting May 20 with three inbound trips each morning and three outbound trips every evening.

“When we invest in public transportation, we are creating opportunities for people to live, work, and thrive and connect in sustainable communities,” Eng added.