30 New Affordable Homes Coming to Rutland — And Why That Matters More Than Ever

A new chapter in Rutland City’s housing future began on May 21st with the groundbreaking of Maplewood Commons, a 30-unit affordable housing development slated for completion in 2026. Located on a long-vacant brownfield site off Forest Street, the project is being developed by Cornerstone Housing Partners in collaboration with Evernorth, two of Vermont’s leading affordable housing organizations.

This initiative marks a significant step toward addressing the region’s housing shortage. Designed to be permanently affordable, Maplewood Commons will offer a mix of income-qualified apartments, with several units set aside for individuals utilizing rental assistance vouchers. The development will feature a community room, green space, secure bike storage, and energy-efficient construction, including modern, high-performance heating systems.

Strategic Investment in Housing and Infrastructure

The $12.2 million project is financed through a combination of public and private funding sources. Key funding includes:

• $5.6 million in federal support through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the National Housing Trust Fund.

• $6.6 million in equity generated through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC).

• Additional contributions from the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board and Efficiency Vermont.

Maplewood Commons is one of several projects supported by ARPA funds in Vermont. However, stakeholders have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of such funding. With federal budget allocations for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) facing increased scrutiny, future affordable housing initiatives may face significant challenges unless alternative financing mechanisms are identified.

A Response to Regional Housing Pressure

Rutland City has committed to building 1,000 new housing units by 2028 in an effort to meet escalating demand. Rising home prices, limited rental inventory, and an aging housing stock have created obstacles for residents across income levels — particularly for working families and essential workers.

The redevelopment of the former industrial site into Maplewood Commons represents a model for infill housing development, a strategy that revitalizes underused or abandoned urban land with new residential opportunities. Advocates say the project demonstrates what is possible when municipalities, nonprofits, and state and federal agencies work collaboratively.

Local Perspective: A Welcome Development

According to local real estate professionals, the addition of high-quality, permanently affordable housing is a much-needed development in Rutland County.

“The housing market in this region is under immense pressure,” said Leo Pond, a real estate advisor at Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty. “We regularly see individuals and families unable to find housing that meets both their needs and their budget. Projects like Maplewood Commons are not only welcome — they are essential.”

Pond emphasized that affordable housing benefits the broader community. “It’s not just about the 30 households that will move into these units. It’s about creating stability, attracting workforce talent, and revitalizing neighborhoods. Rutland is moving in the right direction.”

Future Outlook

While Maplewood Commons represents progress, housing advocates warn that Vermont’s housing crisis will require sustained attention and funding. The success of this development underscores the importance of continued investment in infrastructure, incentives for affordable housing production, and a regulatory environment that supports timely development.

As Rutland continues to implement its comprehensive housing plan, stakeholders hope Maplewood Commons will be a catalyst for additional projects — and a proof of concept for what can be accomplished when priorities align.