Carpentry and electrical students from HHS Dean Campus had a first-hand look at the transformation in progress of the historic Farr Alpaca Mills site on Monday, June 17 as work crews continue their redevelopment work to rebuild the site into Appleton Mill, a housing development for mixed-income people ages 55 and up.
Jim Wildman, site superintendent from Keith Construction Inc., led the tour, showing students the significant progress made since construction began in November 2023. The $55.3 million project, spearheaded by WinnDevelopment, aims to create 88 affordable housing units. The redevelopment includes extensive roof and structural work, as well as construction of a new community building connected to the residential space via a closed skybridge spanning nearby railroad tracks. The project is expected to be completed by early fall 2025.
This educational tour was organized by Mayor Joshua Garcia, providing students with invaluable exposure to a large-scale construction project within their own community. The visit allowed students to gain practical insights and see real-world application of their trades.
“Seeing such a transformative project unfold in their backyard not only elevates their sense of community pride but also showcases the potential career opportunities available right here in Holyoke,” said Career and Technical Education Director Joel McAuliffe. “A significant aspect of this redevelopment project is the requirement that 5% of the workforce must be from Holyoke. This stipulation underscores the importance of local involvement and offers a direct pathway for students to transition from their educational programs to viable careers within their community. The tour provided an invaluable networking opportunity for students looking to take the next step in their trade, allowing them to connect with industry professionals and explore future employment possibilities. This experience not only enhances their education but also opens doors to local job opportunities, reinforcing the message that successful careers in their trade are attainable right here in Holyoke."