State announces funding for Dunkirk housing project
An $11.1 million project for Homesteads at Dunkirk Landing is included in $270 million in funding to create or preserve more than 1,800 affordable, supportive, and sustainable homes in 28 separate developments across New York State.
The awarded projects, announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul and Rep. Paul Tonko through the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and subsidies, will expand or preserve the housing supply in every region, upgrade and modernize public housing, further local economic development initiatives, and include energy efficient features that advance the State’s climate goals. The funding is part of Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.
“Solving New York’s housing crisis comes down to one simple strategy: building more housing,” Hochul said. “These critical federal resources make it possible for us to provide New Yorkers with new opportunities to access affordable, modern, sustainable homes that also provide access to childcare, supportive services, and the amenities that individuals and families need to thrive.”
Dunkirk’s project includes the demolition of two blighted commercial buildings and new construction of a 78-unit mixed-income, mixed-use and supportive development. It includes 16 units with supportive services for veterans with disabilities and commercial space intended for a childcare facility.
Tonko said, “If we want to solve our historic home shortage, we must invest in affordable housing — which is why I am a proud supporter of LIHTC and other vital programs that help us tackle the housing crisis. Supporting affordable, sustainable housing benefits everyone in our communities. At a time when millions struggle to afford quality housing, we must continue to drive smart investments like these that serve families across New York State.”
Financing for the projects is allocated by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), which provided $61 million in Federal and State Low Income Housing Tax Credits and over $200 million in subsidy to support the 28 projects. When coupled with additional private funding and resources, the projects receiving funding are expected to create over $1 billion in total investment.