O’Connell Announces Over $1.2 Million in State Grants to Support Economic Development in Taunton

Taunton, MA - Mayor Shaunna O'Connell is pleased to announce the award of several significant grants through the FY25 round of the Community One Stop for Growth initiative, provided by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. These grants, totaling more than $1.2 million, will help drive local economic development and revitalize key areas across Taunton.

"Our strong relationships and collaboration with our community partners and developers resulted in significant grants that will accelerate revitalization efforts throughout the city, enhance community resilience and promote growth. We remain focused on making Taunton a vibrant place to live, work and invest," said Mayor O'Connell. "This funding is a direct investment in the future of Taunton, and we look forward to working with our partners to implement these projects."

The awards for Taunton are as follows:

$616,926 - Underutilized Property Program (12 Porter Street Development)
To stabilize and repair a 144-year-old, three-story brick building through roofing, masonry, and window replacements. This property will be transformed into 26 housing units, preserving historic architecture while creating new housing opportunities.

$250,000 - Brownfields Redevelopment Fund
To support the cleanup and redevelopment of the Bacon Felt Factory Brownfields Site, advancing environmental restoration and revitalization efforts in the Weir Village.

$228,914 - Underutilized Property Program (T.R.U.E. Diversity Inc.)
For the redevelopment of a long-vacant building in Whittenton Village into a Clean Energy Community Resilience Hub (CCRH), featuring a workforce center and community event space.

$100,000 - Underutilized Property Program (RDA Property Holding)
To support fire and safety protection construction at 74 Weir Street, revitalizing commercial space in the downtown area and creating housing.

$25,000 - Massachusetts Downtown Initiative Program
To provide technical assistance and consultant trainings for downtown building owners on topics such as filling vacancies on upper floors and accessing commercial and residential funding.

"We are grateful for the continued partnership with Governor Healey, Lieutenant Governor Driscoll and Secretary Hao," said Mayor O'Connell. "I also want to thank Director of OECD Jay Pateakos, Grant Manager Heather Rios, and the entire OECD team for their tireless efforts in securing these vital funds. Their hard work ensures that Taunton can continue to grow and create new opportunities for our residents."

"These grants are essential in helping us achieve our goals for the community. The support we received from Mayor O'Connell, Jay Pateakos and his team was critical in helping us to secure this grant funding. We appreciate the strong working relationship we have with the Mayor and the City," said Bobby Asack, owner of 74 Weir Street.

Since taking office, Mayor O'Connell has prioritized identifying and securing state and federal grants to benefit Taunton residents and businesses. Leveraging these funding streams plays a key role in the City's efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and promote sustainable growth. These grants reflect the City's commitment to delivering results that enhance the quality of life for the entire community. ###