More aid for buyers of Springfield historic homes

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) - Officials in Springfield have increased the amount of aid they will offer to whoever buys and renovates three historic homes in the city's Maple Street area.

The vacant homes include two four-story brick Victorian row houses on Maple Street and a wood Victorian two-family home on Avon Place.

Mayor Domenic Sarno says the vacant and deteriorated buildings have affected the neighborhood for years. He says officials are especially interested in proposals from people who plan to occupy the homes.

Each home on Maple Street homes comes with $75,000 for exterior restoration. The buyer of the Avon Place home will receive $50,000 for restoration. The assistance comes from the Community Development Block Grant.

Less money was available when the homes were first offered last year.

Proposals for purchase and redevelopment are due Feb. 6.