Two-family home is revitalized on Irving Street

By Bronislaus A. Kush

WORCESTER - Another rebuilding block was put in place yesterday in the long-term effort to revitalize the historic Crown Hill Neighborhood.

Worcester Community Housing Resources Inc. threw open the doors of its latest revitalization project - a two-family, turn-of-the-century brick home at 30 Irving St.

The house, near the Worcester Public Schools' John Durkin Central Administration Building, is the third successful restoration in the neighborhood by the nonprofit group within the past year.

The WCHR has also begun work on a house at 8 Townsend St., near Elm Park. It is also working with the Elm Park/PREP@ neighborhood group to rehab two six-unit properties on Elm Street and a vacant three-decker on Russell Street.

"Residential projects like this (30 Irving St.) will bring the downtown back to life," said WCHR President Dennis L. Irish, who also serves on the City Council.

A price tag for the project was not available yesterday, but the WCHR restored the house with federal HOME program money channeled through the city and with state funding.

It has been sold to Marc Cooper, a first-time home buyer.

Yesterday morning, a number of visitors, including neighborhood civic and city leaders, toured the house, which retains its original chandeliers, hardwood floors, fireplaces, and ornate radiators.

An accompanying garage was torn down to allow for a side yard.

RJT Construction was the general contractor on the project.

"This project is on of a number we have in the pipeline," said Peter S. Fellenz, WCHR executive director.

The WCHR, for example, recently worked with city officials and the condominium association at 27-29 Irving St. to tear down a three-decker at Irving and Chatham streets, and replace it with a small urban park.

Last spring, the WCHR restored the long-dilapidated 7 Crown St. and 110 Austin St., the boyhood home of Worcester Medal of Honor winner John V. Power.

The WCHR is also spearheading a multifaceted housing and business revitalization pan that centers around the former Chestnut Street Congregational Church.

Officials would like to transform the church into a conference center that would include a themed restaurant, a health club, and an art gallery. A 12- to 14-story building containing 200 upscale apartments would be built to the rear.