Fall River Tax Breaks Approved for 200 Rental Units
Three major redevelopment projects received tax incentives to add new apartments to the city housing market.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Apartments
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The Fall River Tax Increment Financing Board has approved tax exemption agreements for three residential projects. These developments will bring over 200 new rental units to the city through historic mill rehabilitation and building retrofits.
Why it matters
These tax-increment exemptions are designed to encourage the conversion of historic and underutilized sites into modern housing. By providing these incentives, the board aims to offset the high costs of rehabilitating existing structures into active living spaces for residents.
The board approved exemptions for the $65 million Charlton Mill Lofts, the $21 million Thomas Alva Edison Building, and the $4 million Cornell Lofts. Together, these sites will add 212 units of new rental housing to the area.
The players
Fall River Tax Increment Financing Board
A municipal entity that manages tax incentive agreements to stimulate local housing development and economic growth.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The local regulatory body responsible for reviewing and granting special permits for residential redevelopment projects.
The details
The developers secured these tax-increment exemptions by utilizing Housing Development Incentive Program and historic tax credits for their projects. The Edison Building project at 138 Hartwell Street involves rehabilitating a site condemned after a fire, while the Charlton Mill Lofts focuses on preserving a historic 1911 property. The Cornell Lofts will transform a former school building into 16 studio units, supported by special permits granted by the local Zoning Board of Appeals.
Timeline
1911: The historic Charlton Mill was originally constructed.
March 2025: The former Frank Silvia School site was condemned.
March 2026: The Zoning Board granted a special permit for the Edison building project.
October 8, 2026: The TIF Board approved the tax exemption agreements.
The Home Front
These projects reflect a broader regional trend of converting historic mills and schools into residential properties to address housing inventory needs. By leveraging state-backed tax incentives, the city is prioritizing adaptive reuse over new ground-up construction.
If you are looking for new housing in the city, monitor these sites for upcoming construction updates and future leasing information. Consider checking local public records if you are a neighbor interested in the construction timeline or expected completion dates for these major projects.
The takeaway
The city is actively incentivizing the renovation of vacant buildings to expand rental availability. Keep an eye on progress at 138 Hartwell Street, 109 Howe Street, and 650 Plymouth Avenue if you are planning a future move within the area.
Further reading
For more information on local housing trends, visit Apartments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fall River Reporter.
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