The Moltenbrey Building, located in downtown Turners Falls, is a 3-story brick building constructed in 1877. For many years, it has provided the only dedicated sober rental housing in Franklin County. RDI acquired the property in 2001 in an attempt to stop the deterioration of the building at the hands of a non-responsive absentee owner. Due to the deteriorated condition of the building, tenants were relocated by RDI with financial assistance in 2003.
Construction on the project began in July 2004 and the first tenants moved in 12 months later. The renovation included replacement of all major systems (electrical, plumbing, heating, fire prevention), installation of an elevator and accessibility modifications throughout the building, including first floor commercial spaces. In the two upper floors, 26 “enhanced” SRO apartments were created, each with its own kitchenette and full bathroom. Two units are fully accessible and barrier-free. The second floor includes a spacious common kitchen and meeting room. On the first floor, four commercial spaces were renovated. Asbestos and lead were removed, and the historic features of the building were carefully preserved.
The renovated Moltenbrey apartments provide housing for persons committed to sober living and recovery from alcohol and substance abuse. Behavioral health professionals under separate contract with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts provide recovery services and group activities. Housing is made extremely affordable through the use of project-based Section 8 subsidies managed by the Franklin County Regional Housing and Redevelopment Authority. Tenants in good standing who complete a year of residency and comply with their recovery plans are eligible to receive mobile Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers.
To apply for an apartment at the Moltenbrey, please go to the Franklin County Regional Housing & Redevelopment Authority’s website.
