Multi-family development in Boston is flourishing. The city is approving new housing units by the thousands and changing the face of many neighborhoods in the process. Mayor Walsh’s goal of 53,000 new units aimed at workforce housing is ambitious, and the best opportunity to achieve this goal is to not only work with the city and state to identify the right locations and opportunities, but also to engage with local residents and neighborhood leaders.

It is through this close community collaboration that developers can successfully build and maintain housing that is affordable and meets our pressing needs. These partnerships provide valuable insight into the fabric of a community and result in housing that serves the existing population while attracting new residents.

WinnCompanies’ heritage is based on such long-term collaborations with tenant associations and community organizations. Managing residences in Dorchester since the 1990s, Winn prides itself on listening to resident concerns and goals and then customizing developments and services for these diverse populations. From maintaining affordable rentals at Nazing Court through a partnership with MassHousing, to the ownership opportunities created by the adaptive reuse of the Baker Chocolate Factory into the Lofts at Lower Mills, Winn aims to identify locations that can be enhanced, rehabilitated, and/or restored to create sustainable housing for everyone in the community. Partnering with local non-profit organizations and giving residents a seat at the table helps create a development the community is proud of, a place where families can flourish, one that contributes to the overall improvement of neighborhoods.

One recent example of such a partnership is the redevelopment of Washington Park Apartments. WinnCompanies worked with WiSe Urban Development, Nuestra CDC, and Quincy Geneva to renovate and preserve 96 units of affordable housing in Dorchester and Roxbury. With an unprecedented commitment to engage a diverse and local workforce, 65 percent of the work was done by women- and minority-owned businesses, creating good will, pride, and quality work in the process.

This same methodology can be applied to new development, adaptive reuse, and rehabilitation projects. As Boston embarks on its ambitious housing plan, it is more important than ever to include residents and community organizations at the table alongside the city and developers. With their input and direct participation in outcomes, developments can continue to have a profound impact on the community that will be grounded in broad community support and engagement to ensure long-term quality homes and services.

Arthur Winn is the principal and founder of WinnCompanies, a national real estate development and property management company based in Boston.