News

Rainbow Terrace rededicated after renovation

By Tom Dalton
Staff writer
Published: November 9, 2009

SALEM — Mayor Kim Driscoll headed a group of state and local dignitaries at the rededication of Rainbow Terrace on Thursday, following a multimillion-dollar renovation over more than a decade.

The officials celebrated the completion of construction at the housing development for low-income families and veterans.

Rainbow Terrace, built in 1952, provides housing for nearly 400 city residents. It faced a multitude of problems in recent years, including peeling lead paint, mold and basement water.

In an 11-year renovation program, the state spent more than $12 million to fix the drainage system, de-lead 136 apartments, upgrade heating and hot water systems, pave parking lots, and replace roofs, windows, siding, bathroom and kitchen ventilation systems, railings, stairs, and outdoor stoops.

The projects were funded by grants from the state Department of Housing and Community Development.

Speakers included John Boris, chairman of the Salem Housing Authority; SHA Executive Director Carol MacGown; police Chief Paul Tucker; Veterans' Agent Jean-Guy Martineau; and Beth Bower, special assistant to Salem State College President Patricia Meservey.

Photos

Ken Yuszkus/Staff Photographer

Carol MacGowan, executive director of Salem Housing Authority, speaks at the Rededication of Rainbow Terrace ceremonies at Salem State College's Veteran's Hall.