Frequently Asked Questions

Why are we doing this?

The Watertown Housing Authority chose to partner with POAH to build brand new housing and amenities for the current and future residents of Willow Park because a new funding opportunity from the state has become available. The existing apartments are nearing the end of their useful life and are in need of replacement. This redevelopment will enable us to reconstruct these apartments.

How many units are you building?
How many buildings will there be?

There will be a total of 138 residential apartments, including 60 replacement public housing apartments and 78 new apartments. These apartments will be distributed across three new buildings. Unit mix:

What will be the size of the new units?

The redevelopment will consist of a mix of studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments serving households making up to 80% Area Median Income (AMI). In total, the project will have 14 studios, 33 one-bedrooms, 56 two-bedrooms, and 35 three-bedrooms.

When will construction start?

With our zoning permission in hand, we’re currently working towards securing state funding. The construction timeline will depend on the state financing process, but construction will likely not start until December 2026.

When will relocation start? What will happen to the existing residents during construction? 

All existing residents will have the right to return. We will hire an experienced relocation consultant to work with us through the process of providing suitable temporary relocation units during construction. We’ll also work with Watertown Public Schools to keep children enrolled in the Watertown schools they are currently attending. You do not need to move now.