Councilor William J. Macek
Councilors approved a special permit for four market-rate apartments on the top two floors of the Washington Street building that houses the Lasting Room and the Clip Joint.
Owner Phil Rice, working with West Newbury architect Hilary Ward, plans four 1,400-square-foot units, two with two bedrooms and two with three bedrooms. Each floor will accommodate two units, one of which will overlook Washington Street and the other overlooking the river.
Rice said the two upper floors have been unused since he bought the building 20 years ago. He assured the council that he has maintained the sprinkler system throughout the building, having it serviced every year.
Councilors praised the project.
“You are planning nice-sized units; (they’re) the size of some single-family homes,” said William J. Macek. “This project will be a real nice asset and adds to the variety of housing in the downtown.”
Councilor Thomas J. Sullivan said he was pleased that the project will result in restoration of the facade on the back side of the building.
“You’re going to attract good tenants,” Sullivan said.
Council President John A. Michitson said he was most pleased by Rice’s plan to seek market-rate rents, because it indicates a healthy demand for housing in Haverhill’s downtown.
bill macek is one of the few that do their job on the city council. he should be the president. not the dumbo that we have.
Market rate is good. You cant have a thriving restauraunt business district if you keep building apartments and filling them up with scrubs.