Updated at 3:51 p.m.- The Ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Monday
WARWICK – A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the completion of the “Fair House” housing renovation in Warwick will take place on Monday, according to the House of Hope Community Development Corp., a nonprofit agency that works to reduce homelessness throughout Rhode Island.
John O’Hearne, of O’Hearne Associates Architects, oversaw the renovation and redesign of the space.
According to the press release, the building is an example of Greek Revival design, with four tall columns and first- and second-level porches in front, as well as a four-sided observation cupola on the roof.
“This project truly highlights the good that can be done within a community when everyone works together toward a common goal,” Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian said in a statement. “The $2.5 million project will not only preserve an important piece of the city’s history, but it will provide new affordable-housing options to those most in need.”
The residence will provide 10 apartments for adults who have contended with mental illness and homelessness. The Fair House will also house an office for a case manager to provide supportive services for the residents.
The project was a $2.5 million renovation of the 200-year-old exhibit hall, which was once the centerpiece of a 12-acre fairground. The project’s funding came from the city of Warwick, state housing bonds, state historical preservation tax credits, and federal funds, including those from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston.
Laura Jaworski, executive director of House of Hope, summarized the organization’s optimism about the project in a statement, “It adds to the availability of affordable housing; it re-establishes the presence of the house in the community; and it preserves an important part of Rhode Island history.”
The ribbon cutting will also include tours of the renovations. The ceremony will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Monday.
The property is located at 69 Fair St. in Warwick.
Chris Bergenheim is the PBN web editor.
