CONWAY — The development of the town’s first home by Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity could become a reality, thanks to the generosity of a local landowner.
“The land was donated to us from the previous owner,” said Executive Director Megan McDonough. “It’s that sort of generous, charitable contribution that makes it possible for us to build low-cost, affordable home ownership opportunities.”
McDonough said the nonprofit is in the “very, very beginning stages” of the project at 638 South Deerfield Road. The property is raw land, but with a well and septic.
“We don’t have any plans yet, but typically Habitat for Humanity builds simple, single-family homes,” she said. “We focus on energy efficiency and providing safe, stable housing.”
Currently, the organization is building a home on West Pelham Road in Shutesbury, she said. Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity previously built homes in Greenfield and Montague.
“We already have some projects lined up for next year’s building season,” McDonough said, noting the Conway project has been added to the planning queue for future years.
Applications for future homeowners will open when the process is further along in planning.
“(Conway) is a beautiful community with excellent schools,” McDonough said. “And we think someone who would appreciate being on a convenient road to travel to other parts of the (Pioneer Valley), but who’d also enjoy being out in a more rural setting … will really love this opportunity.”
In the meantime, the nonprofit will be looking for volunteers to help with the project, both on-site and off-site. For more information, visit pvhabitat.org.
Mary Byrne can be reached at mbyrne@recorder.com or 413-930-4429. Twitter: @MaryEByrne