Mayor Walsh Presents ‘We Are Boston Leadership Award’ to Cruz Companies CEO John Cruz

Mayor Walsh Presents ‘We Are Boston Leadership Award’ to Cruz Companies CEO John Cruz

john-cruz-med

(From left: Director of the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement Alejandra St. Guillen, Cruz Companies CEO John B. Cruz, III, Mayor Martin J. Walsh. Photo by Renato Castelo, courtesy of Cruz Companies)

BOSTON – Wednesday, November 30, 2016 – Mayor Martin J. Walsh presented the ‘We Are Boston Leadership Award’ to Cruz Companies CEO John B. Cruz, III this week in recognition of his work to embrace Boston’s immigrant heritage and diversity.

“John Cruz has been a leader in providing good jobs for our residents and supporting minority businesses,” said Mayor Walsh. “I’m honored to congratulate John Cruz for his outstanding accomplishments in our city.”

Mayor Walsh presented the award at the ‘We Are Boston Gala’, a multicultural celebration held November 29 at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel, and hosted by the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement.

“On behalf of our company, I am humbled and honored by this recognition,” said Cruz. “Throughout our history, Cruz Companies has given back to the Boston community by increasing affordable housing options, investing in minority businesses, and providing good jobs to inner-city residents.”

During the event, Mayor Walsh also honored Diane Guerrero from the Netflix show ‘Orange is the New Black’ and Richard E. Holbrook, chairman and CEO of Eastern Bank for their contributions to diversity and immigrant inclusion.

About Cruz Companies:

Founded by John “Bertie” Cruz, Jr. in 1948, Cruz Companies is the oldest and largest minority construction firm in the region. The John B. Cruz Construction Company is responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region such as the Reggie Lewis Track & Athletic Center, Boston Police Department Headquarters and the Fortress Building. Cruz Development Corporation produces well-designed homes, maintaining the highest standards of workmanship. Cruz Management Company provides quality residential housing management services.

First Annual Cruz C.A.R.E.S. Walkathon Raises Support for Youth Summer Jobs in Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan

First Annual Cruz C.A.R.E.S. Walkathon Raises Support for Youth Summer Jobs in Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan

(Photo Credit: Eric Haynes / Archipelago Strategies Group)

(Photo Credit: Eric Haynes / Archipelago Strategies Group)

BOSTON – On Saturday, June 4, Boston residents came together for the First Annual Cruz C.A.R.E.S. Walkathon, traveling a 3-mile route through Franklin Park to raise awareness and funds to support summer jobs for youth in Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan.

It was great to see all the participants come out on a beautiful day to support a great cause,” said John B. Cruz, III, president of Cruz Companies. “Our goal is to create job opportunities for as many youth as we can this summer, and this successful event will help us do just that.”

The Walkathon, “Making Strides for a Better Community,” was hosted by Cruz C.A.R.E.S., the non-profit arm of Cruz Companies, one of the region’s largest and oldest minority-owned construction firms.

The event was a benefit for youth summer jobs in Boston’s communities of color through the Cruz Youth Summer Works program, which offers summer jobs to youth living in Cruz managed properties and others who live in Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan. The over 50 participants helped raise over $12,000 but the final amount will probably be higher as they are still accepting donations. For more information about how to donate, you can contact CruzCares@CruzCompanies.com

About Cruz Companies and Cruz C.A.R.E.S.: The John B. Cruz Construction Company of Roxbury is one of the largest and oldest minority-owned construction companies in the nation responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region. Cruz C.A.R.E.S. (Community Arts, Recreational and Educational Services) was born from the company’s mission of giving back to the community in as many ways as possible. Cruz C.A.R.E.S. is a registered 501c(3) and exists to help Boston’s urban communities and specifically the youth of Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan.

Power Families: The Next Generation

Power Families: The Next Generation

Boston Magazine Power 2016: Power Families – The Next Generation, The Management Marvel: Justin Cruz.
These rising stars haven’t taken over the family business yet, but they’re following closely in their parents’ footsteps.

Age: 41

Family Legacy
Cruz Companies, founded by Justin’s grandfather and run by his father, John Cruz III, and his father’s cousin, Daniel Cruz Jr., is among the largest and oldest minority-owned development, construction, and management firms in the region, with clients ranging from Harvard to Raytheon to the Archdiocese of Boston. Meanwhile, the group’s nonprofit arm funds scholarships and youth programs for the city’s kids.

His Role
Justin directs the company’s management services for its residential buildings around Boston.

Dad’s Take
The management side has a bit more opportunity without some of the restrictions,” John says. “I expect that over the next few years, Justin will really have some significant growth.”

CRUZ COMPANIES AND SECRETARY ASH BREAK GROUND ON RESIDENCES AT HARVARD COMMONS PROJECT

CRUZ COMPANIES AND SECRETARY ASH BREAK GROUND ON RESIDENCES AT HARVARD COMMONS PROJECT

CRUZ COMPANIES AND SECRETARY ASH BREAK GROUND ON RESIDENCES AT HARVARD COMMONS PROJECT 

Colin Johannen, P.E. Project Manager- Tetra Tech, Micheal Washington, President MWA Architects, Justin Cruz, Director Cruz Companies, Matthew Birmingham, Construction Superintendent – Cruz Companies, John B. Cruz III, President – Cruz Companies, State Representative Russell Holmes, Daniel Cruz, Sr. Vice President – Cruz Companies, State Senator Sonia Chang Diaz, Jay Ash, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, Sheila Dillon, Director – Department of Neighborhood Development, Edgar Carrere, Sr. Real Estate Project Manager – Cruz Companies, Dennis Tourse, Principal –Tourse and Associates PC.)

From left: Colin Johannen, P.E. Project Manager- Tetra Tech, Micheal Washington, President MWA Architects, Justin Cruz, Director Cruz Companies, Matthew Birmingham, Construction Superintendent – Cruz Companies, John B. Cruz III, President – Cruz Companies, State Representative Russell Holmes, Daniel Cruz, Sr. Vice President – Cruz Companies, State Senator Sonia Chang Diaz, Jay Ash, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, Sheila Dillon, Director – Department of Neighborhood Development, Edgar Carrere, Sr. Real Estate Project Manager – Cruz Companies, Dennis Tourse, Principal –Tourse and Associates PC.)

BOSTON – Wednesday, January 13, 2016 – Cruz Companies and Housing and Economic Development (HED) Secretary Jay Ash today broke ground on the final phase of The Residences at Harvard Commons, a new community of single-family homeowners consisting of a total of 54 homes that will serve families from a wide variety of economic and ethnic backgrounds.

“New housing in Dorchester strengthens the community while supporting local workers and families,” said Secretary Ash. “I am glad to see our MassWorks investments pay off for Dorchester residents, and I look forward to working with Cruz Companies and others to create good, affordable housing in Dorchester and the rest of the Commonwealth.”

The final phase of the project will bring the an additional 28, custom, market rate “for sale” homes to the subdivision, located at Senator Bolling Circle in Dorchester, to the already existing 26 units which are all under contract already. The project will also include a full-featured community center, gym, and child-care facility for the residents of Harvard Commons.

“We thank HED for its support in this project, which has allowed the complete transformation of this Dorchester neighborhood,” said John B. Cruz III, president of Cruz Companies, one of the oldest and largest, minority-owned businesses in the Northeast. “This beautiful subdivision will provide suburban-quality housing to the city, while also strengthening the neighborhood’s multicultural identity.”

“I am happy to go to bat for Cruz Companies because they provide quality housing in our community and hire local residents, minorities and women in an effort to provide economic opportunities for all,” said Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz.

Following the groundbreaking event, attendees participated in a tour of a beautiful Harvard Commons home, which was led by a proud existing homeowner.

“I want to thank Cruz Companies for their work to bring quality market rate home ownership opportunities to the area,” said Rep. Russell Holmes. “Harvard Commons proves that our communities can and should have a mix of options.”

The Residences at Harvard Commons lies on a portion of the former Boston State Hospital site, which has been vacant since its closure in 1979.

The total $25 million project will bring 54 beautiful, single-family homes to the neighborhood. This is in addition to the 45 units of affordable housing already created through the $20 million Harvard Commons Rental Cooperative project. The total development cost of the projects is $45 million.

In January 2015, HED awarded Cruz Development a MassWorks grant of $1.9 million to complete the infrastructure at Harvard Commons. This work included the installation of sewer, drainage and electrical utilities, as well as the construction of roadway, curbing and sidewalks.

In addition to HED, Cruz Companies worked closely with local leaders, residents and members of the Boston State Hospital Citizens Advisory Committee, to ensure the project provides for a mix of households from a wide variety of economic and ethnic backgrounds.

Cruz Companies motto is “Cruz Cares” and its mission is giving back to the community through job, housing and investing in other minority businesses, Cruz is a modern firm that values old-fashioned quality and integrity. The John B. Cruz Construction Company is responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region; Cruz Development Corporation produces well-designed homes, maintaining the highest standards of workmanship, and Cruz Management Company provides quality residential housing management services.

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Cruz Companies Hosts First Annual Youth Holiday Celebration in Roxbury

Cruz Companies Hosts First Annual Youth Holiday Celebration in Roxbury

BOSTON – Wednesday, December 23, 2015 – Cruz Companies hosted its first annual youth holiday celebration in Roxbury this week at the Yawkey Boys and Girls Club. Dozens of children and families from Cruz properties attended the event and received gifts and took pictures with Santa.

“We are proud to share the holiday cheer with neighborhood children and families, and hope this great event will continue for years to come,” said Cruz Companies President John B. Cruz III.

“Our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’ and our mission is giving back to the community in as many ways as possible.”

About Cruz Companies: The John B. Cruz Construction Company of Roxbury is one of the largest and oldest minority-owned construction companies in the nation, responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region.

McCoy joins Cruz Development Corporation

McCoy joins Cruz Development Corporation

BEVERLY – Nov. 5, 2015 – Cruz Development Corporation, an affiliate of John B. Cruz Construction, one of the largest and oldest minority-owned companies in Boston, has announced that Armond McCoy has joined the company as real estate project manager to further grow and enhance Cruz’s residential, commercial and mixed use project portfolio.
“We are excited to welcome Armond to the team,” said John Cruz, president and CEO of John B. Cruz Construction. “When it comes to investing in the community, our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’, and Armond certainly shares our commitment to increasing affordable housing and economic opportunities, thus improving the quality of life for all residents.”

Boston-Based Construction Company Celebrates 30th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Boston-Based Construction Company Celebrates 30th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

BOSTON – Tuesday, December 8, 2015 – Members of Boston’s Roxbury community joined together Tuesday evening to celebrate Cruz Companies’ 30th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Cox Building.

“Our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’ and our mission is giving back to the community through increasing affordable housing opportunities, providing good jobs to area residents and hiring other minority businesses,” said Cruz Companies President John B. Cruz III.

Roxbury, MA – Members of Boston’s Roxbury community joined together Tuesday evening to celebrate Cruz Companies’ 30th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Cox Building.

“Our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’ and our mission is giving back to the community through increasing affordable housing opportunities, providing good jobs to area residents and hiring other minority businesses,” said Cruz Companies President John B. Cruz III.

“We are delighted to bring members of the community together to celebrate the holidays as part of this 30-year-annual tradition,” said Cruz Companies President John B. Cruz III. “Our motto is ‘Cruz Cares’ and our mission is giving back to the community through increasing affordable housing opportunities, providing good jobs to area residents and hiring other minority businesses.”

“It’s wonderful to be here with Cruz Construction to share with the families Christmas,” said State Rep. Russell Holmes. “It is also great to see the good work that they do throughout the community during the whole year.”

“It is wonderful to have the Christmas spirit right here in John Elliot Square with a family that is synonymous with Roxbury,” said Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson. “The Cruz family has done so much for this community and just continues to give back.”

“We are so delighted to partner with Cruz because they have a wonderful, respected reputation in the community,” said the Rev. Mary Margaret Earl, senior minister and executive director of the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry. “We really want the urban ministry to be a welcoming hub for the community.”

About Cruz Companies: The John B. Cruz Construction Company of Roxbury is one of the largest and oldest minority-owned construction companies in the nation responsible for landmark projects and developments across the region.

 

83 UNITS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN BOSTON

83 UNITS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN BOSTON

WAYNE AT COLUMBIA REDEVELOPS 83 UNITS OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN BOSTON WITH $20 MILLION MASSDEVELOPMENT BOND
MassDevelopment has issued a $20 million tax-exempt bond on behalf of Wayne at Columbia, LLC, which will use bond proceeds to purchase and renovate seven buildings containing 83 units of affordable housing in Boston’s Dorchester and Mattapan neighborhoods.
The Wayne at Columbia project is part of the overall redevelopment of the Wayne Apartments project, a scattered site development serving 349 lower-income households in Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan. The Wayne at Columbia project developer, Cruz Development Corporation of Roxbury, was also the developer of the Wayne at Franklin Hill community, a major renovation of 72 units of affordable housing that used proceeds from a $9.9 million MassDevelopment bond for the purchase and renovation of the units.
“Greater availability of attractive affordable housing is a priority for both Boston and the Commonwealth,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones. “Making these 83 units safer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient will benefit Mattapan and Dorchester residents as part of the overall revitalization taking place in these neighborhoods.”
Renovations for Wayne at Columbia will include new kitchens, new bathrooms, new heating systems, new roofs, new windows, extensive masonry and re-pointing, asbestos and lead abatement, new and refurbished flooring, painting, and installation of a sprinkler system.
“In the complex world of today’s multi-lender housing deals, it is nice to work with an organization whose knowledge and sophistication makes the transaction run that much smoother,” said Daniel Cruz, Jr., Vice President of Cruz Development Corporation. “We are proud to partner with MassDevelopment on this project to improve the quality of affordable housing for the community.”
All 83 units at Wayne at Columbia will be rented to households earning no more than 60% of the area median income. In addition to the tax-exempt bond financing, MassDevelopment assisted the Department of Housing and Community Development with the approval of federal low income housing tax credits, which will generate approximately $9.3 million in equity.
MassDevelopment, the state’s finance and development agency, works with businesses, nonprofits, financial institutions, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2014, MassDevelopment financed or managed 314 projects generating investment of more than $2.9 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are projected to create more than 6,300 jobs and build or rehabilitate more than 1,600 residential units.