Nestled on South Main Street in Waterbury, Vermont, a significant development is underway that promises to enrich the fabric of the community. The Marsh House Apartments project, after years of meticulous planning and navigating local and state regulations, has officially broken ground. This three-story building, designed with modern living in mind, is set to bring 26 much-needed affordable housing units to the heart of Waterbury, breathing new life into this central thoroughfare. Preliminary site work, which included thorough archeological reviews described humorously as making the site look like “Swiss cheese,” was completed last summer, paving the way for the commencement of construction. An old well was discovered and properly closed off during this phase, satisfying all pre-development requirements. Following minor delays last fall, the real estate transaction was finalized last month, and ReArch construction management teams have mobilized to bring this vision to reality.
Designed by gbArchitecture, the Marsh House Apartments are envisioned as a modern, energy-efficient residential building. These 26 rental units are specifically designated for individuals and families earning low to moderate incomes, addressing a critical need for affordable housing in the area. Downstreet, the driving force behind this project, has further committed to inclusivity by reserving three apartments for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and five for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. To ensure comprehensive support for these residents, Downstreet is partnering with Upper Valley Services and the Good Samaritan Haven, leveraging their expertise in providing supportive services. Prospective tenants can anticipate the application process to open in the fall, with construction projected to last approximately a year. The Marsh House Apartments are on track to welcome residents in early 2026, marking a significant milestone for South Main Street and Waterbury.
The realization of the Marsh House Apartments is a testament to the power of collaborative funding. Securing financial support from over a dozen state, federal, and local sources underscores the widespread commitment to this project. Crucial funding components include federal directed spending championed by former U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, the Vermont Housing Finance Agency, and low-income tax credits facilitated through the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board. Waterbury’s contribution of $100,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal pandemic-recovery funds further highlights local investment. Efficiency Vermont has also contributed through energy-efficiency incentives, ensuring the building meets modern sustainability standards. An innovative grant mechanism will redirect state sales taxes paid on construction materials back into the project. Administered by the state Agency of Commerce and Community Development, this award channels funds through the town government, ultimately returning approximately $150,000 to bolster project financing. This intricate web of funding reflects the multifaceted approach required to bring affordable housing projects to fruition and the strong community backing for the Marsh House Apartments on South Main Street.
Honoring Local History: Naming the Marsh House Apartments
The name “Marsh House Apartments” is deeply rooted in Waterbury’s history, specifically acknowledging James Marsh, the town’s first settler. Project managers, in their search for a meaningful name, delved into local historical records. Nicola Anderson, Downstreet’s director of real estate development, highlighted the story of James Marsh, who journeyed from New Canaan, Connecticut, to establish himself and his family in Waterbury in 1783. Historical accounts, notably from “History of Waterbury Vermont, 1763-1915” and an 1867 text by Rev. C.C. Parker, detail the immense challenges faced by the Marsh family in pioneering Waterbury. James Marsh’s resilience and determination in the face of hardship, including his tragic death by drowning in the Winooski River, resonated deeply with the project team.
Anderson explained that the name “Marsh House” was chosen to embody the “strength, determination, and resilience” of James Marsh and his family, qualities that mirror the spirit of community and perseverance driving the apartment project. Downstreet Executive Director Angie Harbin emphasized that this connection to Waterbury’s past feels particularly apt given the project’s origins in addressing a pressing local need identified by residents and leaders. The exceptional community support for the Marsh House Apartments, Harbin noted, is a testament to the collective desire to enhance South Main Street and Waterbury as a whole. P. Howard “Skip” Flanders, chair of the EFUD trustees, who has been instrumental in repurposing the 51 S. Main St. site, expressed his anticipation for the groundbreaking ceremony at a recent Waterbury Select Board meeting, stating, “This has been a long time coming.” The Marsh House Apartments stand as a symbol of progress, community collaboration, and a respectful nod to Waterbury’s rich heritage on South Main Street.
