The lack of affordable housing is one of the main problems faced by low-income New Yorkers in the five boroughs of the Big Apple. And the City and State have just announced the construction of an affordable housing complex in Queens, which is expected to build 2,47 units for mixed-income renters. in a time of 11 phases. A total of 194 apartments will be delivered in its first phase, which has just started.
This was revealed by the mayor, Eric Adams, after revealing the start of construction of the so-called “Edgemere Commons” complex, which will also have 59 housing with support services, and a commercial space, which will be built on the land of the old hospital of Far Rockaway.
Regarding the project, Governor Kathy Hochul stated that it will have an investment of $100 million, and explained that the first building of 14 floors, a remodeling will begin that will have 11 phases at the Peninsula Hospital Center.
“This This project represents a much-needed investment and a critical new resource for a deserving community,” said Mayor Adams. “Not only with affordable housing, but also with public and commercial spaces, we are making the most of this land and bringing security, prosperity and good health to hundreds of New Yorkers.”
Governor Hochul further mentioned that the Edgemere Commons project will transform the lives of residents of that part of Queens and strengthen the entire Far Rockaway community.
“By investing in this mixed-use development, we can add the types of housing of high quality, medical services, commercial activity and public space that revitalize neighborhoods and create a more inclusive, safe and vibrant place to live”, said the state president.
The housing complex will provide 29 apartments for adults with developmental disabilities and 30 for homeless adults, who will have rental subsidies and support services.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. valued the joint effort of the State and the City with other agencies to advance this housing initiative.
“Starting construction of the first phase of Edgemere Commons represents an important milestone in our shared effort to create a sustainable, resilient and service-rich community that will bring much-needed and long-awaited affordable and supportive housing to Rockaway families,” said Richards. “After years of ruin stemming from the closure of the old Peninsula Hospital, the revolutionary Edgemere Commons is now one step closer to reality. The future for Edgemere and the entire Rockaway Peninsula looks much brighter.”
To promote the project, among other resources, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development of the City of New York will contribute a subsidy of $22,7 million, there will be $14,7 million in permanent tax-exempt bonds and tax credits that will generate $47,7 million of capital from the Renewal of Homes and Communities.
Jessica Katz, director of housing for the New York City recognized the new initiative as another step in the fight against the housing crisis in the Big Apple. “This is an incredible project in our effort to address the housing shortage in the city. Edgemere Commons will soon be home to more than 2000 new affordable units for New Yorkers in a community facing critical housing need,” said the official.