CommunityScale

Fall River Davol Street Housing Market Analysis

CommunityScale completed the Housing Market Study for the Davol Street Corridor Master Plan in Fall River. This milestone was achieved in partnership with the Fall River Redevelopment Authority, City of Fall River, and Stantec Urban Places. Our analysis focused on quantifying market demand, evaluating the feasibility of various unit mixes and price points, and charting a strategic path for a vibrant, mixed-use redevelopment along the city’s waterfront.

The study demonstrates that the Davol Street site can successfully absorb a broad range of new housing options—potentially setting a new market ceiling thanks to its proximity to a commuter rail station and prime waterfront views. By exploring key factors such as household mobility patterns, local vacancy rates, and the willingness of regional renters to pay higher price points, we identified an optimal development program that is both competitive in the market and beneficial to the community.

Rendering of the master plan that incorporates CommunityScale’s housing market analysis findings, courtesy of Stantec and Fall River Redevelopment Authority

In addition to the housing analysis, CommunityScale collaborated with project partners to review existing site conditions, conduct a zoning audit, and develop robust socioeconomic data to guide the broader master plan. Together, these efforts will help ensure the Davol Street Corridor becomes a dynamic mixed-use district where new residential, commercial, and public spaces can flourish.

We look forward to seeing the Davol Street Corridor Master Plan come to life, helping to create an active, inviting waterfront for residents and visitors, and contributing to the long-term vitality of downtown Fall River.

This project utilizes our unique approach to targeted housing market analysis which is detailed in this post.

Jeff Sauser

Jeff Sauser, co-founding Principal at CommunityScale, has over 10 years experience leading urban design and planning projects for public and private sector clients in complex urban contexts across the country. His work emphasizes the role of housing policy and production in driving economic development progress and creating opportunities for socioeconomic mobility across the community. He is particularly interested in applying emerging big data resources and AI tools to help clients and communities plan smarter and more proactively.