Aldermen in Manchester have given their approval to a three-year tax break deal to help finance a new multifamily building in the city’s downtown. 

Developer Avatar Construction had sought a five-year abatement for 21 and 31 Central St., currently home to a restaurant building but where the company hopes to build an 8-story, 77-unit apartment building. 

The tax break was sought under the state’s Community Revitalization Tax Credit.  

The New Hampshire Union Leader reported that while the city typically grants five-year abatements, city staff recommended only three in this case, at least until construction is completed, raising questions about whether the project will be able to get off the ground.