WHALE Converts Historic Firehouse Into New Housing
The Waterfront Historic Area League is transforming a city firehouse into eight residential units.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Cultural
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The Waterfront Historic Area League is restoring a former firehouse at County and Hillman Streets into eight residential housing units. The project features five affordable apartments and three market-rate homes.
Why it matters
The development helps retain the city's historic architectural character while addressing urgent community housing needs. It utilizes state historic tax credits to support the preservation efforts.
The Waterfront Historic Area League has operated for more than 60 years. The firehouse conversion includes five affordable housing units alongside three market-rate units.
The players
Waterfront Historic Area League
This organization has worked for over 60 years to preserve historic architecture and facilitate community development in New Bedford.
CMK Development Partners
This firm is partnering with the local league to manage the technical conversion of the firehouse into modern residential units.
The details
The renovation project, led by the Waterfront Historic Area League in partnership with CMK Development Partners, includes the restoration of the original firehouse doors. The initiative balances historic preservation with modern residential requirements.
Timeline
November 4, 2026: First historic home restoration workshop at 5:30 p.m.
November 18, 2026: Second historic home restoration workshop at 5:30 p.m.
December 13, 2026: Holiday House Tour from noon to 4 p.m.
Industry Dynamics
The restoration follows the pattern established by the federal and state historic tax credit programs to make the adaptive reuse of old structures financially feasible. This project highlights a shift toward repurposing municipal buildings to maintain neighborhood heritage while expanding local housing stock.
Residents can participate in historic home restoration workshops held at 33 William Street to learn preservation techniques. Additionally, tickets are available for $35 to tour seven local properties during the December 13 holiday event.
The takeaway
Preservation groups often combine development projects with community workshops to engage the public in local history. Residents interested in architecture can support these efforts by attending scheduled house tours and educational seminars.
Further reading
Learn more about local preservation efforts in the New Bedford Cultural section.
More information
For more details on upcoming events and preservation initiatives, visit the WHALE organization website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 1420 WBSM.
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