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First sale marks beginning of Old Hill revival

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



SPRINGFIELD - The effort to revitalize the Old Hill neighborhood moved forward with the sale of the first house completed by the Partnership for the Renewal of Old Hill.

The single-family house at 170 Pendleton Ave. was constructed by HAP, Inc., which along with Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services, the Old Hill Neighborhood Council, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity, Springfield College and the City of Springfield comprises the partnership. The partnership's goal is to construct 100 new home in the neighborhood over the next five years.

HAP Executive Director Peter Gagliardi said there are another five HAP-constructed houses completed or near completion and that Springfield Neighborhood Housing services is starting construction on two homes.

The HAP effort is extend to the adjoining neighborhood of Maple High Six Corners where it is has started work on several new homes.

"People have lined up [to buy the new homes," Gagliardi said. Interested potential homeowners should call HAP at 233-1500 for more information.

The new owner of 170 Pendleton Ave., Evelyn Fernandez and her family, were greeted with presents at a brief ceremony and press conference last week. Fernandez, who is a security guard, told Reminder Publications that she had been trying for a year to buy a house, but "never did her homework."

She enrolled in first-time homeowners classes and "realized there is an opportunity."

Before the classes she thought her inability to find a house and a mortgage were linked to her income level and being a single parent.

"All you have to do is think positive," she said.

Looking at her home, she said with a smile, "I still can't believe it."

HAP will be offering a first-time homebuyer learning fair on May 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MassMutual Center. The free event will feature information from lenders, real restate brokers, home inspectors, insurance agents, attorneys and Affordable Mortgage programs. There will also be raffle prizes and activities for children. No registration is necessary to attend the fair.