COMB Block Phase 1 is an upcoming 61,038‑square‑foot, six‑story affordable housing development on Oxford Street in Portland’s East Bayside neighborhood that will provide 55 apartments for low‑income households.
Located at 70 E. Oxford Street, Phase 1 occupies approximately ±0.56 acres of the larger ±1.53‑acre COMB Block site. The COMB Block redevelopment will replace four existing residential buildings constructed in 1972 that are in poor condition. The project begins this summer with Brownfield remediation, addressing contaminated soils and urban fill materials and preparing the site for redevelopment prior to vertical construction.
Phase 1 will include 55 apartments ranging from one‑bedroom to three‑bedroom units to accommodate families. Eleven apartments will be accessible for residents with physical disabilities. Ground‑level community and mechanical spaces are planned to support resident services and building operations.
Resident amenities will include on‑site laundry facilities, bike storage, and a community room. A shared green space is planned between buildings, providing outdoor gathering space and enhancing the livability of the site.
The overall COMB Block redevelopment is planned as a three‑phase effort by the Portland Housing Authority. Phase 1 represents a critical first step in revitalizing the property and expanding access to high‑quality, affordable housing in Portland. The project is supported by tax credit financing through MaineHousing.
