Gov. Deval Patrick recently joined local officials and community members to break ground on a major housing development project on the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway.

Located on the corners of Causeway, Beverly and Haverhill streets, the site known as Parcel 1 will be transformed into “The Victor,” a 12-story, 286-unit apartment building with 138 parking spaces and 17,000 sq. ft. (1,579 sq m) of retail space. The project will create an estimated 400 construction jobs during the course of building and additional jobs through future retail occupants.

“Massachusetts is creating jobs faster than most other states thanks to projects and partnerships like this one,” said Patrick. “I know that this development will serve as a national model on how to revitalize our cities.”

In breaking ground, Patrick cited the unprecedented level of cooperation among officials from Mayor Menino and the city of Boston, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the Federal Highway Administration, and neighbors of the project. Parcel 1 once stood in the shadows of the elevated Central Artery and was slated for redevelopment as part of the Big Dig mitigation.

“This is a great project for all the reasons people have talked about: the jobs and housing it will create, and the vitality it will bring to the Greenway and the Bulfinch Triangle, which is so important to the future of our city, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to make sure it reaches its full potential,” said Menino. “Today’s groundbreaking is another important sign that — despite the tough economy — people are investing in Boston because they know they can grow and succeed here. We all know the recession has affected every city but every city can’t lead America out of it, Boston can. We are the 6th most economically powerful city in the world and it’s with projects like the Victor that we will keep Boston on top.”

Construction on the project began in August 2011 with an estimated completion date set for early 2013. Construction is being managed by Suffolk Construction, with ADD Inc. as the architect.

“This is a great example of how we can be creative with land we’ve reclaimed from the elevated artery,” said Richard Davey, secretary of MassDOT. “In today’s world, we have to look beyond transportation projects as a means for moving people and goods; we must also consider what impact they have on a community and how they can benefit the residents and businesses of the area. We will continue to be innovative with the use of our land and help facilitate something that will benefit the community and will also promote economic growth.”

Upon completion, The Victor will be managed and leased by Simpson Property Group. Property amenities will include two rooftop lounges, a 5,000 sq.-ft. (464 sq m) health club with sports court and gaming lounge, residential lobby and lounge. The Victor is being built according to LEED Silver standards and will offer a variety of floor plans for residents.

In early October, Patrick announced $10 million in city and state subsidies and $3 million in state and federal tax credits to advance the Parcel 24 housing development project in Chinatown. The project will create an estimated 700 construction jobs, 345 housing units and restore Chinatown’s Hudson Street neighborhood that was razed nearly 50 years ago to make way for an expressway.

Today's top stories

Larry Young Paving Tackles Grade-Separated Interchange in Texas

NAPA Urges Drivers to 'Watch For Us' During National Work Zone Awareness Week

Caltrans, Crews Working to Repair Highway Landslides

Landscapers, Contractors, Dealers Can 'Test Before They Invest' in Equipment in Equip Expo's 30-Acre Outdoor Demo Yard

John Deere Launches Nationwide Search for First-Ever Chief Tractor Officer

Growing Interest in Construction Careers Among Younger People Means Jobs Filled, Deadlines Met

American Bridge Co. Leads Conn.'s East Haddam Swing Bridge Project

New Rocket Park at Huntsville, Ala.'s Space Program Museum Nearing Completion