Fall River, MA – October 7, 2024 –
Cordeiro Properties secures close to $10 million in financing from Rockland Trust for the rehabilitation of a 146-year-old former mill building, known as the Merrill Building in Fall River. The
former 30,937 sq. ft. mill, located at 66 Troy Street in Fall River, will have the top three floors converted into 36 market rate residential units.
“We’ve been working with the Cordeiro Properties team for several years on historic rehabilitations throughout Fall River. This project, along with others we’ve worked on together such as Commonwealth Landing and International Ladies Garment Worker Center Building, help address the need for additional housing options on the South Coast,” said James Joyce, Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer at Rockland Trust. “It’s such a rewarding experience to participate in these meaningful projects of finding new life in buildings with a rich architectural history.”
Cordeiro Properties has owned the property since 1999. The long-time leaders of the first floor, Southeast Center for Independent Living, will continue their lease. This project will be Cordeiro's fifth historic project demonstrating extensive experience in redeveloping former historic mills and office buildings into mixed-use commercial/apartment properties utilizing historic tax credits within Fall River.
“We're thrilled to breathe new life into the Merrill Building by adding 36 market-rate apartments. This project honors the building's rich history while providing modern, desirable living spaces that meet the needs of today’s residents. We are deeply appreciative of the support of our long-term banking partner, Rockland Trust and Jim Joyce, who are making this revitalization project possible. Together, we’re not just restoring a building; we’re building a brighter future for our downtown,” said Anthony Cordeiro, President & CEO of Cordeiro Properties.
The revitalization of the Merrill Building is expected to be completed in early fall of 2025. Upon completion, the building will be comprised of 23 studios and sixteen one-bedroom apartments. The Merrill Building is conveniently located in downtown Fall River, within a few minutes' drive from Interstate 195, Routes 138, 79, 81, 6, and 24. In addition, a new Fall River Depot rail line with MBTA service to Boston is forthcoming (estimated opening in Spring 2025) as part of the South Coast Rail Project within 1.6 miles from the building.
