For the first time in 70 years, Boston’s Chinatown will enjoy a permanent branch of the public library. A mixed-use building featuring the library and over 100 affordable homes will replace a city-owned parking lot at 55 Hudson St.

The redevelopment will create a 12-story building with 66 affordable rental apartments and 44 affordable homeownership units. The library will occupy the first two floors of the building and feature a community room with a capacity for 100 people.

City leaders hope to increase homeownership opportunities and improve access to library services in a high-demand pocket of the city.

Recently, Mayor Michelle Wu joined city and state officials, community leaders and partner organizations to celebrate the project’s groundbreaking.

“It has never been a more critical time to be building more affordable housing units in the City of Boston, particularly in Chinatown,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz in a press release. “Not only will the community see 100 new affordable units with this project, but it will also bring about a new Chinatown branch library, helping fulfill a long promise to the people of this neighborhood.”