A new application round for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding, providing support for affordable housing, parks and open spaces, and historic preservation projects is now open. Applications are due September 27, 2019.
The Community Preservation Act provides funds collected from a surcharge on real estate taxes for local community projects. This 1-percent surcharge and a state match combine to raise about $25 million annually for these projects.
Last year, $1 million went to the North End to support climate change efforts at Langone Park and Puopolo Field.
In order to be eligible, projects must fall into one of the three categories mentioned above and must be ready to begin construction in the next 18 months. It is recommended that a letter of intent be submitted for affordable housing projects by Friday, August 23, 2019 at 4 p.m. An eligibility form must be completed for parks / open spaces and historic preservation projects by Friday, September 6, 2019.
The City received 87 applications during the Fall 2018 application period, including five from the North End. In addition to Langone Park, projects submitted by North End groups were:
- Renovations of the Knights of Columbus building for affordable housing.
- Preservation of the Old North Church crypt.
- Capital improvements for the North End Dog Park.
- A park at the Freedom Trail Cross St. plaza.
After applications are collected, Mayor Walsh and the Community Preservation Committee, made up of nine members who study community preservation needs, will recommend projects for funding. Those projects will then go to the Boston City Council for a vote.
See a map of all community preservation act projects here.
