Categories: New York City, Member News, Groundbreakings
01.19.2023
On a brisk December 9th, Project Renewal joined project partners, funders and elected officials to break ground on Bedford Green House Phase II. When completed, this residence will create 116 new affordable apartments, 70 supportive, in Fordham Heights in the Bronx. Project Renewal will provide onsite services funded by the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) through the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH).
Located next to Bedford Green House Phase I, the residence will be designed to LEED Gold standards and will include a medical clinic, a fitness room, a landscaped backyard and the Molly B. Kronick Library and Learning Center. Residents will also have access to the amenities at Bedford Green House Phase I, which includes a playground and rooftop greenhouse garden.
Project Renewal Executive Director Eric Rosenbaum kicked off the program. “Bedford Green House has become a community of renewal and stability for individuals and families overcoming homelessness, mental health concerns, and other challenges,” he said.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams then spoke, “We are in the midst of a homelessness and housing insecurity crisis. This type of project is the actual path and plan to provide the continuum of care needed.”
Council Member Pierina Sanchez remarked, “This is the type of project — long-term in nature with wrap-around services — to reach people who need it most in this city. This is the model of housing I’m fighting for.”
“It is amazing to be able to celebrate another project in the Bronx,” said RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner/CEO of NYS Homes and Community Renewal (NYS HCR). “It is very exciting to build off the momentum of the first building,”
“We are so happy to contribute to the 70 supportive housing units.” said Dana Greenberg, Assistant Director, NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). “We can’t wait to see more people have nice warm homes.”
“This building will have a health clinic, a children’s library and amenities for the community as well as residents,” said Emily Lehman, Assistant Commissioner, Division of Special Needs Housing, NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD). “These two buildings combined are the exact type of housing we’re looking to do more of under the Housing our Neighbors plan.”
“New York is leading the nation in developing supportive housing. Under ESSHI, programs like this will receive service and operating funding for residents to live and thrive in their community,” said Joseph Maynard, Mental Health Program Specialist, NYS OMH. “This project plays a critical role in ending homelessness. When we raise up our vulnerable residents, everyone benefits.”
Jen Trepinski, Director of Loan Originations, Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) also spoke.
Funding for Bedford Green Housing Phase II came from NYS HCR’s permanent tax-exempt bonds, NYC HPD’s Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits; NYS OTDA’s Homeless Housing Assistance Program (HHAP); and grants from New York City Council and the Bronx Borough President’s Office.
The architect is Edelman Sultan Knox Wood (ESKW) Architects and the general contractor is Bruno Frustaci Contracting, Inc.