New Madinah Development Project
Integrating affordable housing, youth education facilities, cultural retail spaces, and an expanded worship center into the community. Get Involved today.
4 Goals of the New Madina Project:
Affordable Housing:
- Objective: To address the pressing need for affordable housing in Lower Roxbury. Our expansion plans will create 38 new tax-credit-subsidized low-income and affordable housing units.
- Approach: We are developing housing options that are affordable, sustainable, and supportive of community well-being.
- Impact: By providing stable and dignified housing solutions for residents, we will foster a more inclusive neighborhood.
Youth Education Facilities:
- Objective: To establish educational spaces that empower youth through learning and skill development. Our expansion will create more space for college prep courses and educational opportunities.
- Approach: We will collaborate with educators and community leaders to design enriching programs and facilities.
- Impact: By equipping the next generation with knowledge, we will provide opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Expanded Worship Spaces:
- Objective: To provide ample and accessible spaces for worship and community gatherings. Currently, we have the capacity to accommodate less than half of the demand from over 300 individuals who wish to worship with us regularly.
- Approach: We are designing facilities that accommodate diverse community needs and enhance spiritual engagement.
- Impact: This initiative will foster a stronger sense of community and spiritual growth among residents.
Cultural Retail Spaces:
- Objective: Currently, we serve over 2,000 individuals by providing food and household supplies. An expansion will allow our food pantry to accommodate more people and offer greater stability. We plan to enhance and update the restaurant that provides nutritious food and the bookstore that offers educational and culturally relevant items for the community.
- Approach: We aim to expand our offerings and improve the facilities to better serve community needs.
- Impact: Our initiatives will provide essential resources and cultural connections, fostering a more stable and informed community.
Project Program:
- Community-Led Development: A local non-profit with deep community ties.
- 38 Housing Units: Subsidized low-income and IDF affordable.
- Public Bazaar – Grounds floor cafe, cultural retail & event space.
- Community Program: Three stories dedicated to education, public service, and worship spaces.
- Sustainable Development: Fossil fuel-free and energy-efficient design.
Project History:
- The project began Article 80 Small Project Review pre-file meetings in February 2021.
- Existing street trees were identified as potential obstacles to development due to site constraints and encroachment.
- An arborist provided a preliminary assessment indicating the need for tree removal for any proposed development.
- The project was initially halted until a separate tree removal hearing was held, which resulted in a denial of the removal request.
- Following further assessment and discussion, the project was allowed to formally submit for Article 80 Small Project Review.
- The project has received overwhelming community support, clearing the public comment period.
Project Hurdles & Path Forward:
- In conjunction with the BPDA, an arborist was engaged to assess the condition of the trees and their possible impacts in light of proposed and alternative development options.
- One of the trees was determined to be in poor health, and the current state of the trees has made the sidewalk inaccessible, causing hazardous conditions.
- It is anticipated that any construction activity in the vicinity of the trees will significantly diminish their longevity.
- Pruning the canopy and root system is infeasible due to extensive encroachment onto the project site.
- Under MGL Chapter 87, we need your express support to facilitate the removal of these trees to advance community-led development in Lower Roxbury.
