Harvard University Expands Affordable Housing in Boston
Harvard University is partnering with the City of Boston to address housing availability and affordability by constructing and funding new homes in neighborhoods like Allston. The university will deepen its investment in local housing initiatives by contributing land, funding, and resources to create affordable options for residents.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced the housing investment during the Harvard Ed Portal in January.
“We know that the housing crisis is one of the biggest sources of stress for families in our city, and that’s why every action we need to take creates more housing production and ensures affordability,” said Tiffany Chu, Wu’s chief of staff, at the event.
According to an Insight Into Diversity report, several projects will bring new home alternatives to the Allston area. The construction of the American Repertory Theater’s new home at 175 North Harvard St., for example, has reached a significant milestone, with a 2026 opening planned for the facility.
Adjacent to the site, a residential complex with 276 units designed for Harvard affiliates, including graduate students and employees participating in the university’s research efforts, is also nearing completion.
Work is also proceeding on the Enterprise Research Campus (ERC), a mixed-use development that will include commercial lab spaces, retail, and more than 340 residential units. Some residential units within the ERC are expected to be completed by the summer of 2025, with a commitment that 20% will be income-restricted.
Beyond its own developments, Harvard is also overseeing the construction of two affordable housing projects by donating land and funding site acquisitions. On Seattle Street, Harvard has given land to support building 43 affordable condominiums. At 279 North Harvard St., the university is contributing $4.8 million for obtaining a site that will support a 49-unit senior housing complex.
