News & Updates

Issue 2: March 12, 2025

This month: All you need to know about the Home Modification Loan Program, plus the City of North Adams wants to hear from you!

Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP)

If you or someone in your household has a physical or cognitive limitation and you need to modify or upgrade your home, the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) may be the answer.

How does it work?

HMLP provides 0% interest, deferred payment loans to homeowners or landlords for necessary housing adaptations or modifications to improve accessibility for older adults and individuals with disabilities. Loans are secured by placing a mortgage lien on the property for the loan amount, which is paid back when the property is sold—a monthly payment is not required. 

The program can fund a wide range of upgrades, including:

• Ramps and lifts

• Hardwired alarm systems

• Fencing

• Sensory spaces

• Accessory dwelling units (ADUs)

• Accessible bathrooms and kitchens

• Driveway paving

• Floor leveling

Established by the Massachusetts Legislature, HMLP is a fully state-funded loan program, and not impacted by recent cuts to federal programs. 

Anyone with a documented disability or functional limitation with a household income of up to 200% AMI can apply. 

How do I apply?

Apply online or contact Brett Roberts, Senior Housing Planner at Berkshire Regional Planning Commission with questions about your project and to see if you qualify.

nbCC Community Center

The Northern Berkshire Community Coalition (nbCC) has announced plans to renovate the historic 18,000 sq. ft. building at 192 State Street to house its staff and provide ADA-accessible community spaces including a teaching kitchen, a 200-person event space, and a half-acre of community green space. With close proximity to Child Care of the Berkshires, Goodwill, Noel Field Athletic Complex, and within easy walking distance of Main Street, nbCC's new center will be uniquely positioned to bring together neighborhood, social work, and community leaders to empower citizens to play productive roles in the future.

Steeple City Social

The newest spot for drinks and treats is now open! Steeple City Social, located at 5 Eagle Street, offers coffee drinks, cocktails, and freshly baked sweet treats in a cozy, elegant space.

Hours this week:

Thursday, 3/13, 5pm–10pm
Friday, 3/14, 5pm–10pm
Saturday, 3/15, 10am–3pm
Sunday, 3/16, 10am–3pm

Reimagine North Adams

The City of North Adams and Discover North Adams are conducting a survey of residents and visitors to share what new businesses, activities and changes they would like to see. The survey will be open until May 2 and takes less than 5 minutes.

Take the survey!

Share your updates!

If you have an update about a development project in North Adams or you are involved with an initiative helping to grow North Adams, we’d love to share it in our next monthly newsletter! Submit by clicking on the button below.