Construction has begun on the mixed-use Whittier Lyndhurst Washington Homes redevelopment in Codman Square. The multi-site project will represent a $20.1 million investment and create 44 units of affordable rental housing, according to Mayor Martin Walsh, who led a groundbreaking ceremony at the site on Tuesday.

Four Codman Square sites are being developed within the project, including the renovation of 15 units of public housing at the Whittier School site, 13 new units of affordable rental housing adjacent to the school on Darlington Street, and the renovation of eight units on Lyndhurst Street. The property at 472 Washington St. will include 1,000 square feet of commercial space, along with another eight new rental units.

“In Boston, we are committed to building a city that holds opportunity for every person and every family, no matter their background, age or financial status,” Mayor Walsh said. “I’m proud that the city’s investment in this project will help support new affordable rental housing for families and I want to thank the many partners who are working to help us achieve our housing goals.”

The Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation., which is leading the project, anticipates completing the first phase of the project this summer.

As the properties are part of the Talbot Norfolk Triangle Eco-Innovation District, the Talbot Norfolk Triangle Neighbors United group worked with the city to ensure compliance with the district’s green standards.

According to the mayor’s office, the Department of Neighborhood Development contributed $1.6 million to the Homes. Also providing funding were the state’s Department of Housing and Community Development, the Massachusetts Housing Partnership, the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, NeighborWorks America, RBC Capital Markets and Bank of America.