About RENU
Establishment
Redevelopment has always been a significant role for public housing authorities. The Lowell Housing Authority (LHA) established a separate entity to guide redevelopment activities called the Revitalization Effort Towards New Urbanism (RENU).
RENU has been formed to foster collaboration between community stakeholders with an interest and role in promoting economic development in the Acre, through increased housing, vitalized street level retail, and the development of spaces for small scale business development. Through community engagement and a mixed-income approach, RENU aims to build a vibrant, mulit-faceted Acre along the Merrimack Street Corridor between City Hall and the University of Massachusetts, Lowell.
Mission
The Revitalization Effort Towards New Urbanism, Inc. (RENU), is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit instrumentality organization whose mission is to develop, own, and operate affordable housing for low and moderate-income people and families primarily in the City of Lowell by providing permanent, stable housing to those unable to secure housing without public or private assistance. The organization strives to enhance and revitalize neighborhoods, promote economic growth and urbanism through a variety of private and public partnerships which further the organization’s mission.
Key Areas of Focus:
Economic Vitality & Strategic Partnerships:
- Driving local economic growth and upgrading urban infrastructure through coordinated efforts between public agencies and private stakeholders
Attainable & Market-Balanced Housing:
- Ensuring revitalization expands the range of available housing options to meet the needs of the entire workforce, with a commitment to the Commonwealth’s Housing Choice Initiative
Neighborhood-Driven Revitalization:
- Cultivating local collaboration to build vibrant, well-rounded neighborhoods that support long-term stability and a high quality of life