Underutilized Properties Program Community One Stop for Growth

The Underutilized Properties Program (UPP) is a grant initiative under Massachusetts' Community One Stop for Growth, authorized by the 2024 Economic Development Bill, the “Mass Leads Act.” With a total funding allocation of $90 million, the program aims to support projects that rehabilitate or redevelop blighted, abandoned, vacant, or underutilized properties. The primary objectives include eliminating blight, increasing housing production, promoting economic development, and enhancing commercial building accessibility for persons with disabilities. A portion of these funds is available through the Community One Stop application process, streamlining access to multiple funding sources for comprehensive project support. The program funds capital improvements and pre-development activities to make properties viable for occupancy and economic use. Examples of eligible capital improvements include building stabilization, roof repairs, HVAC system upgrades, fire and life safety compliance, and accessibility improvements. Pre-development activities may include architectural and engineering assessments, code compliance studies, and feasibility analyses. However, funds cannot be used for new construction, site work, administrative costs, or certain legal and tax-related studies. The program is open to municipalities, municipal agencies or authorities, economic development corporations, nonprofits, and private-sector entities. All applicants must include a letter of support from the municipality, demonstrating the public benefit of their proposed project. While private-sector applicants may apply, they must clearly define the public purposes of their project to qualify. The grant awards typically range from $50,000 to $1,000,000 for capital improvements and up to $250,000 for pre-development activities. Projects must be completed within one year of the grant award. Applications must be submitted through the Community One Stop for Growth online portal and consist of forms covering applicant information, project details, and certification of authority. The evaluation process considers eligibility, public purpose alignment, project readiness, economic benefits, financial need, and geographic diversity. Successful applicants must demonstrate that projects can be completed within the fiscal year and will have a significant positive impact on the community. Awarded funds are typically provided as grants, with for-profit entities receiving recoverable grants subject to repayment if the property is sold within five years. Successful applicants will receive commitment letters outlining the grant amount and conditions. The grant process is subject to state budget appropriations, and applicants not selected for funding can request feedback on their proposal. Submissions are electronic-only and must be completed within the stated deadlines.