“This is how things get done.”
The old adage states that the three most important factors in determining the desirability of a property are “location, location, location”.
If that’s the case, then the New Bedford TDI District picked the perfect location for its inaugural Real Estate Workshop on Friday, Nov. 17: Cafe Europa at 1256 Acushnet Avenue, north end New Bedford. What better spot on the map than one of the District’s destination eateries?
But aside from cuisine, it was the opportunity to learn more about the resources that MassDevelopment’s TDI program brings to the table when the subject is community development. After all, TDI stands for MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative and it is a program designed to accelerate economic growth within focused districts. The program works with cross-sector partnerships to engage community members in actionable planning, implement local economic development initiatives, and spur further public and private investment.
The New Bedford TDI District’s Real Estate Workshop drew nearly 80 participants from both public and private sectors eager to learn more about MassDevelopment’s real estate resources. If you missed the workshop, you can take a look at what they offer on their website here. Below, you can see what the workshop looked like in a photo set.
At Cafe Europa on November 17th, attendees heard from panelists Dottie Fulginiti, Amanda Gregoire, Robert Jenkins, Rob Anderson, and Jim McKeag. Each delivered a presentation tailored to the audience, holding their attention throughout the first session. Later, guests had the chance to join the panelists for lunch, continuing discussions on the presented resources and asking specific project-related questions.
The truly exciting part of this is…this is just the beginning! In its second year as a TDI District on Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford the emphasis will be on real estate development initiatives. In fact, a sub-committee has already formed under the direction of chairperson Ashley Eaton, AICP, Neighborhood Planner at the City of New Bedford.
So in 2024, there will be more opportunities to participate in events and planning that focus on real estate investment and opportunity here in the north end. And the chance to explore all that MassDevelopment has to offer in the field.
Don’t be shy! As Robert Jenkins told the audience at the first New Bedford TDI District Real Estate Workshop, “Take advantage of MassDevelopment programs. This is how things get done.” While Rob Anderson noted, “MassDevelopment does not have a wrong doorway in.”
Step inside.
- The New Bedford/Acushnet Ave TDI Team
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:
The MassDevelopment TDI Program is conducting a Public Perception Survey to help comprehensively understand the perceptions held by visitors, workers, and residents within the TDI district’s neighborhood. The data collected will be instrumental in shaping community priorities and directing resources effectively. Please take a moment to complete the survey at the links below by December 8, 2023, and enter a raffle for a Visa gift card upon completion. Be sure to select New Bedford TDI District when you take the survey!
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT:
We were fortunate to have the New Bedford Economic Development Council (NBEDC) sponsor our November Real Estate Workshop – and provide lunch at Cafe Europa for all our guests! Being terrific partners comes naturally to the NBEDC team. Of course, our missions align perfectly as both the New Bedford TDI District and the NBEDC are dedicated toward fostering transformative development in the city. The NBEDC goes about that in a variety of ways, including business-building grants and loans.
They also provide specific guidance to New Bedford businesses, such as the following which fits into the newsletter’s real estate theme this month.
“The IRS is offering programs related to investments in pollution reduction for commercial/industrial buildings and diesel vehicles that you or a business you know may find beneficial.
The fuel tax credit commonly known as the Inflation Reduction Act, has been retroactively reinstated and extended the following fuel tax credits through December 31, 2024: alternative fuel credit, alternative fuel mixture credit, and second generation biofuel producer credit.
Building owners who place in service energy efficient commercial building property (EECBP) or energy efficient commercial building retrofit property (EEBRP) may be able to claim a tax deduction. Click here to read more about the deductions available.”
TRY TRANSIT – For FREE:
Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), has announced that beginning on Jan. 1, 2024 and lasting through June 30, 2024, all fares will be waived and riding the bus in its service area – from New Bedford to Fall River – will be free! In the north end of New Bedford, the popular 202 Lunds Corner and 204 Ashley Boulevard provide all day and evening rides – free as of January 1, 2024. Happy New Year!
CALENDAR:
MONDAY, DEC. 11 – What Sweeter Music: The Polyphony Choir of Magdalen College in Concert: On Monday, December 11, at 6:30 PM, The Polyphony Choir of Magdalen College will present a festive concert of sacred music for Advent and Christmas at Saint Anthony of Padua Church, 1359 Acushnet Ave, New Bedford, MA. The acclaimed 22-voice ensemble will take you on a musical journey from the season of hushed waiting to the joyful radiance of Our Lord’s Nativity. This concert is part of the choir’s What Sweeter Music tour that is taking place at churches across New England this December. It is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit magdalen.edu/concert.
SUNDAY, DEC. 17 – MUSIC AT SAINT ANTHONY’S – SPIRIT OF SAINT ANTHONY CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT: It’s the 19th year of wonderful Christmas Concerts at St. Anthony of Padua Church in the North end of New Bedford! This year on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3:00 p.m. the Spirit of St. Anthony Choir under the direction of David Touchette, will perform with a choir of members from churches in the Greater New Bedford Area. Donations accepted at the event for the benefit of the 1912 Historic Casavant Pipe Organ renovation fund. www.musicatsaintanthonys.org
- The Acushnet Avenue New Bedford TDI District is focused on the revitalization of the Acushnet Avenue corridor in New Bedford. The goal of the MassDevelopment program is to stimulate economic growth, encourage community development, improve infrastructure, enhance public spaces, and attract private investment to the area. The program involves working closely with local stakeholders, businesses, and residents to identify priorities and implement initiatives that address the unique needs of the neighborhood. Adelsa Mendes is the TDI fellow for the New Bedford TDI District. You can reach her at [email protected]