Manchester School Redevelopment Adds 36 Housing Units
A $9.4 million financing deal clears the way for new apartments at the historic Hallsville School site.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Commercial
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Rockland Trust has provided $9.4 million in financing to redevelop Manchester's historic Hallsville School into a 36-unit residential complex. The project aims to address the ongoing housing shortage in Southern New Hampshire by creating mixed-income apartments.
Why it matters
This redevelopment project seeks to ease the local housing supply crunch by repurposing an 1891 municipal landmark into modern residential units. By leveraging tax credits, the development adds much-needed inventory while preserving historic architecture in the area.
Rockland Trust is providing $9.4 million to support the construction of 36 new apartments. This project is intended to increase local housing inventory in a region currently facing a persistent housing shortage.
The players
Rockland Trust
A financial institution providing capital for commercial and residential development projects.
PROCON
A project partner specializing in construction and design-build services.
Novo Studio Architects
An architectural firm involved in the historic preservation and design of the residential conversion.
The details
The redevelopment project at 275 Jewett Street converts original classrooms into residential space while maintaining the building's historic masonry and clock tower. The project utilizes Low-Income Housing Tax Credit financing to support the creation of mixed-income housing units. Additionally, the existing gymnasium will remain open for public recreational use throughout the transition.
Timeline
The original Hallsville School building was constructed in 1891.
Rockland Trust announced the $9.4 million financing agreement on October 23, 2026.
Money Landscape
This project reflects a broader trend of utilizing the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to revitalize historic structures in supply-constrained urban markets. It demonstrates how developers are increasingly relying on tax incentives to make the conversion of aging municipal infrastructure financially viable.
Residents should track how this project influences the availability of mixed-income housing in the neighborhood as construction progresses. Those interested in potential housing opportunities or the status of the public gymnasium should monitor local planning announcements for further details.
The takeaway
This development represents a strategic approach to addressing housing needs by repurposing existing city infrastructure. Local residents should follow upcoming municipal board meetings to stay informed on construction timelines and the future access schedule for the preserved gymnasium.
Further reading
For more on property developments, read our latest updates on Commercial real estate.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NH Business Review.
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Do you support converting historic buildings in your area into new affordable housing units?
