Mass Audubon Best Value Grant: Notice of Intent

The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts announces its intent to disperse funds to Mass Audubon. The purpose of this grant is to assist Mass Audubon with the acquisition of the 18-acre Forbes Site located in Chelsea, Massachusetts. The total purchase price and related closing costs are approximately $10 million, of which Mass Audubon has secured $9.5 million from other sources. The acquisition will facilitate the redevelopment and activation of this former industrial site to provide climate resilience, public waterfront access, environmental education opportunities, outdoor recreation, and approximately 250 units of much-needed housing. • The grant amount is $500,000. • The Grant Award will support the acquisition costs associated with the Forbes Site. • The broader project includes collaboration among Mass Audubon, The Neighborhood Developers, GreenRoots, and the City of Chelsea to remediate and restore the site. • The redevelopment will transform a blighted and unsafe property into a resilient, community-oriented space that includes affordable housing, public access to the Chelsea River and Mill Creek, greenspace, and workforce development opportunities.