Lowell Historic Board Approves Permits for Two Downtown Rehabilitation Projects

LOWELL — April 14, 2025 — Lowell Historic District Board clears two downtown rehabilitation projects at April 14 meeting. The board voted unanimously to approve a historic permit for 246.2 Market Street, where developer Kaning and architect Rainer plan to convert a circa-1810 hydroelectric powerhouse into 27 residential apartments, with aluminum windows replicating original wood-framed units and no on-site parking garage. A second unanimous vote approved architect Anthony Mackey's plans for 278 Central Street — described in city records as Lowell's oldest active hotel, built in 1824 — to demolish a crumbling 1906 rear addition, build a larger replacement, and reclad a non-original 1950s brick storefront in a paneled system echoing historic proportions while preserving the building's circa-1860 slate Mansard roof and its 27 lodging rooms. Both projects are pursuing federal historic preservation tax credits and remain subject to National Park Service review. The board also accepted a $1,000 donation from the LaPierre Trust through the Greater Lowell Community Foundation for the Sun sign restoration and welcomed Lucia, the Planning Board's newly appointed representative to the Historic District Board.