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Adams, MA Gets Smart Home for Residents with Disabilities

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/2 .. -smart-home-for-residents-with-disabilities.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 12:53 GMT by Berkshire Eagle
      Locales: Massachusetts, UNITED STATES

Adams, MA - January 28, 2026 - A groundbreaking project is underway in Adams, Massachusetts, set to redefine accessible housing for individuals with disabilities. BFAIR, a local non-profit dedicated to providing housing and support services, is spearheading the creation of a technologically advanced "smart home" designed to foster independent living. Located conveniently near the intersection of Summer and Eagle Streets, the home represents a significant investment in inclusive housing within the Northern Berkshires region.

The initiative received a substantial boost of $750,000 from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development, enabling BFAIR to renovate an existing structure into a fully accessible and intelligent living space. This funding allows for the integration of cutting-edge technology specifically tailored to the unique needs of future residents.

"What's exciting about this project is that we can tailor the home's technology to meet the needs of the residents," explained MaryAnn Battista, BFAIR's Director of Housing. This isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; the smart home will be adaptable, ensuring it truly empowers individuals to manage their daily lives with greater ease and autonomy.

Beyond Automation: A Focus on Empowerment

The smart home will go far beyond simple automation. While features like automated lighting, temperature control, and electronically operated door locks are central to the design, the system's true strength lies in its voice-activated controls. Residents will be able to manage appliances, entertainment systems, and various other aspects of their environment simply by using voice commands. This functionality is particularly crucial for individuals with limited mobility or dexterity.

The implications are profound. For someone with a physical disability, being able to adjust the thermostat or turn on a light without physically needing to reach a switch can be transformative. The integration of these technologies removes barriers and allows residents to live more independently, reducing their reliance on caregivers for everyday tasks.

State Representative John Barrett III, D-North Adams, lauded the project as an example of the positive impact technology can have. "We're very pleased to be able to support BFAIR's innovative approach to providing accessible housing," he stated. "This project is a great example of how technology can be used to improve the lives of people with disabilities."

A Model for Future Development

BFAIR envisions this smart home as more than just a single residence; it's intended to serve as a replicable model for future affordable housing initiatives throughout the Northern Berkshires and potentially beyond. The organization hopes to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of incorporating smart technology into accessible housing, encouraging other developers and communities to adopt similar practices.

The project has been in development for several years, building upon strong community support. The Adams Select Board unanimously approved the project last year, recognizing its value to the town. Numerous local businesses and organizations have also contributed to the effort, highlighting the widespread commitment to inclusivity.

Virginia Presler, BFAIR Executive Director, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. "This project is a real testament to the power of community partnership," she said. "We're so grateful for the support we've received from the town of Adams, the state, and our local partners."

Eligibility and Next Steps

The completed smart home is expected to be available for occupancy by the end of 2026. BFAIR will be accepting applications from individuals with disabilities who meet their established eligibility criteria. Specific details regarding the application process and requirements can be obtained by contacting BFAIR directly.

This initiative represents a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable housing landscape. By leveraging the power of technology and fostering collaboration, BFAIR is empowering individuals with disabilities to live fuller, more independent lives - and setting a precedent for future developments in accessible housing across Massachusetts.