Speranza Inn

In partnership with state and local agencies, Downstreet is moving forward with the acquisition and rehabilitation of the Speranza Inn at 173 South Main Street in Barre City. The existing 42-unit hotel will continue operating as a shelter resource, providing safe and stable accommodations for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, needing medical respite, or facing other short-term housing crises. Robust on-site services will be coordinated to support residents in stabilizing their situations and moving toward permanent housing solutions.

The Department of Children and Families has identified an ongoing need for shelter capacity in Washington County, and both the Economic Services Division and the Office of Economic Opportunity are providing subsidies for 30 of the units. While the immediate focus is on meeting this urgent need for temporary shelter, Downstreet’s long-term vision is to convert the property into permanently affordable housing once the demand for emergency shelter subsides. With Barre City zoning allowing up to 55 housing units on the site, a future market study will guide the final design and unit mix to best serve the community.