There are some big happenings close to ReVision’s Massachusetts branch! Construction on Leefort Terrace, made up of 124 affordable homes on Salem’s waterfront, is now complete. Community-centered, climate-resilient housing – it’s a win for everyone, bringing together sustainability, accessibility, and long-term affordability for Salem.
From Vision to Reality
Leefort Terrace was conceived by ICON Architecture, Callahan Construction Managers, and Beacon Communities, as a full redevelopment of an aging residential site on Salem Neck. The completed community replaces outdated garden-style apartments with a modern, energy-efficient building, offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes designed to meet the needs of individuals, families, and seniors. It’s both affordable AND forward-thinking.
Located in a coastal floodplain, the development was engineered to withstand the impacts of the climate crisis. The new building is built to exceed projected 2070 floodplain levels and meet the rigorous energy efficiency standards required of Certified Passive House buildings. With all-electric systems, EV chargers, and lots of bicycle parking, the completed development decreases the community’s carbon footprint while reducing long-term costs for residents.
Powering the Future with Rooftop Solar
A key feature of Leefort Terrace’s sustainability strategy is its rooftop solar installation, designed to deliver both environmental and economic impact. The system includes a 146.8 kW array made up of 277 Silfab solar panels, mounted on Ecolibrium racking, and powered by SolarEdge inverters.
This system is expected to generate approximately 164,925 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually, equivalent to the total energy use of several homes. That production translates to about 40 metric tons of carbon emissions avoided each year. A meaningful contribution to reducing the community’s carbon footprint and energy costs.
True Affordability in Action
All 124 homes in Leefort Terrace are income-restricted, and supported by Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and rental assistance programs, allowing residents to pay approximately 30% of their income toward rent.
Leefort Terrace is more than just housing; it creates a place where people can connect, recharge, and feel at home. Residents have access to a fully equipped fitness center, community and wellness spaces, shared outdoor areas with gardens and gathering spaces, computer stations, and other resources.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
The completion of Leefort Terrace demonstrates what’s possible when public and private partners come together with a shared mission: to create housing that is affordable, accessible, resilient, and built with people in mind.
As residents move in and the community comes to life, Leefort Terrace stands as a powerful example of how we can address housing challenges while planning responsibly for the future.
Meanwhile, ICON Architecture and Beacon Communities are already building that future, right down the road.
“Our next project launching in Salem advances our commitment to resilient, sustainable design,” said Michelle Apigian, Managing Principal at ICON. “It will be an all-electric, Passive House and EGC-certified community exploring the use of battery backup and integrating thoughtfully redesigned spaces and forms tailored to a new generation of residents.”