The FY24 Round of the Community One Stop for Growth has allocated approximately $164 million in funding for 338 local economic development projects across 161 communities. Lynn, as one of the recipients, has been awarded funds for six distinct programs.
These initiatives span environmental assessment, collaborative workspace development, zoning code revision, infrastructure improvements, and programs aimed at connecting young individuals to economic opportunities and assisting small businesses in their growth efforts.
The Brownfields Redevelopment Fund, amounting to $100,000, will be utilized by the city of Lynn to assess potentially hazardous materials and environmental issues at the Lynn Multi-Services Center building and its associated property. According to the Mass.gov website, this assessment is aimed at addressing impediments to the rehabilitation of the building, ensuring the long-term preservation of the community services it offers.
Lynn Music Foundation, in partnership with Lynn Museum, has received $81,000 through the Collaborative Workspace Program. This grant will be used to improve spaces within the Lynn Arts building and to create a hub for local artists in music, media, and visual arts to collaborate and develop their creative endeavors.
Under the Housing Choice Grant Program, Lynn will be awarded $270,000 to review the zoning code. This initiative seeks to simplify the code, align it with sustainable development practices, incorporate the Vision Lynn plan, and adhere to MBTA Communities guidelines.
The MassWorks Infrastructure Program has granted Lynn $2.4 million for a project focused on improving the intersection of Broad St. at Washington St. and Spring St. These improvements are intended to support two nearby private developments, which collectively will introduce 54 housing units and 15,000 square feet of commercial space to Lynn’s Central Business District.
Through the Urban Agenda Grant Program, Roca Inc. will receive $100,000 to execute the Community Employment Readiness Project (CERP). According to the mass.gov website, this initiative aims to provide trauma-informed workforce development services to connect 60 young women aged 16 to 24, along with an estimated 75 children, to economic opportunities in Chelsea, Lynn, and Revere. The services are case management, Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) skills, transitional employment, and job placement.
Another $100,000 from the Urban Agenda Grant Program will support the Lynn Partnership in providing ongoing support to small business owners and entrepreneurs, primarily from minority backgrounds. According to the mass.gov website, the objective is to enhance the micro and small business sector in Lynn and its neighboring areas, thereby strengthening Lynn’s resilience and diversity while equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary tools for successful business development.
