Former motorcycle factory converted into affordable housing

A 55,000-sf, five-story former manufacturing mill facility for Indian Motorcycle has been converted into 45 apartment units for low-income residents in Springfield, Mass.

Originally built in 1890, the new Mason Square Apartments II at Indian Motorcycle now comprises one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments. Units range in size from 570 sf to 1,150 sf. Amenities include on-site laundry facilities, heat and hot water included, and 24 hour emergency maintenance.

Mason Square Apartments exterior rear

The building’s existing masonry was repaired and the massive interior timber beams were retained. The large window openings were also preserved as approximately 1,300 new, high-performance, double-hung units from Diamond Windows & Doors were installed. The aluminum window frames were painted black to resemble old steel-framed factory windows from the early 20th century.

Mason Square Apartments II at Indian Motorcycle acts as a gateway to the American International College and is located on a major bus route that allows easy access to the surrounding area.

Across the country, multifamily rents have skyrocketed. Year-over-year rents are up by double digits in nine of the top 30 markets, while national YoY rent growth is up 6.3%. Emerging from the pandemic, a perfect storm of migration, enhanced government stimulus and a hot housing market, among other factors, has enabled this extremely strong growth.