Summary

Affordable housing project review continued

SalemFeb 25, 20262 min read

At a glance

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The Design Review Board continued review of a proposal to convert 50 Washington Street into 48 studios of 100% affordable, permanent supportive housing for at-risk veterans.

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Design Review Board

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Housing

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What this means

The proposed project would reuse the Salem Tabernacle Congregational Church while preserving space for the church congregation. The board did not make a final design decision and will review the project again after considering comments about the community room kitchenette, lighting, and other site features. The board also approved signage for 26 New Derby Street, with the owner asked to return with the full storefront design.

Key decisions

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Approved the proposed sign for 26 New Derby Street by a 4-0 vote, with the condition that the owner return to present the design of the entire façade.
Continued schematic design review of the 50 Washington Street adaptive reuse proposal for 48 affordable supportive-housing studios.
Continued design review of the first phase of the Forest River Residences proposal, which includes 340 residential units and 524 parking spaces.
Approved the January 28, 2026 meeting minutes by a 4-0 vote.

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