Mayor Domenic Sarno and Chief Development Officer Tim Sheehan announced the initiative Friday, targeting properties in the Maple-High Six Corners and South End neighborhoods.
The city is offering up to $1.375 million in public funding to support the construction of three-bedroom homes, officials said. The funding includes $600,000 in Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery funds and $775,000 from the HOME Investment Partnership Program.
Completed homes must be sold to low- and moderate-income first-time buyers earning 80% or less of the area median income, according to the city.
Mayor Sarno said expanding homeownership opportunities remains a priority for the city, calling Springfield “The City of Homes” and emphasizing efforts to increase both market-rate and affordable housing.
Three of the vacant lots are located at 25, 33, and 47 Richelieu St., officials said. The remaining properties are located at 96 Marble St. and 105 Pine St.
City records show the Richelieu Street lots range from approximately 5,600 to just over 6,100 square feet, with assessed values between $24,400 and $31,400. The Marble Street and Pine Street lots are approximately 5,177 and 7,289 square feet, respectively, with assessed values of $23,800 and $24,300.
Developers may submit proposals for one or multiple sites, but must include separate budgets and timelines for each property. City officials said proposals will be evaluated based on feasibility, past experience, and compliance with federal requirements.
Officials said developers are encouraged to minimize the use of public funds, though overall project impact will also be considered in the selection process. The city may award preferred developer status to one or multiple applicants.
A public workshop for interested developers is scheduled for April 16 at the Brightwood Branch Library, located at 359 Plainfield St., officials said.
The workshop is optional and open to the public, with no RSVP required. Proposals are due to the city by May 27 at 2 p.m., according to the announcement.
Full proposal materials are available through the city’s procurement office, and questions must be submitted in writing by May 20.
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