CITY RECEIVES ADDITIONAL $2M GRANT FROM HUD TO MAKE 120 MORE HOMES LEAD SAFE

"This is a tremendous opportunity for
residents to easily and efficiently ensure the safety of their homes," Hauck
said. "Not only will this benefit families with children six and under who live
there or visit regularly by safely removing harmful toxins, but program
participants are also eligible for window and door replacement related to lead
abatement, which will ultimately provide better insulation and reduced home
heating costs." 

With 94% of its housing stock built
before 1978, Somerville is currently ranked the 11^th most at-risk
community in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for risk of childhood lead
poisoning. All homes built before 1978 may be at risk of containing lead, and
homeowners and residents are encouraged to call the Lead Hazard Abatement
Program for information on lead testing. 

It is estimated that the funds will
help protect almost 5,000 children from the dangers of lead paint over the next
two decades. On top of a $1,500 per unit tax credit, the Lead Hazard Abatement
Program offers 0% interest grants to income eligible homeowners and investor
owners in the City of Somerville to make their properties lead-safe. Tenant relocation
costs including hotel, food, and kennel services will also be reimbursed by the
City.

The
Lead Hazard Abatement Program is designed to provide an incentive for property
owners to comply with lead laws, create safe living environments for families with
children and maintain affordable rental units. For those residents who do not
have children six and under who live there or visit regularly but are income
eligible, the Housing Division also offers 0% interest loans through the
Rehabilitation Program.

For more information
please contact Daniel Hauck at (617) 625-6600 ext. 2587 or Vicki Wairi at (617)
625-6600 x 2588.