Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the start of construction on Grace Brown House, a $7.7 million affordable housing development in Cortland County.
Financed with assistance from the state Homes and Community Renewal, the project will provide 25 homes and supportive services for families at risk of experiencing homelessness.
Grace Brown House will consist of a single three-story building with 18 one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom apartments, with all units reserved for individuals or families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity. The project is being developed by Christopher Community, Inc., with supportive services including case management, legal, educational, and vocational services provided by the YWCA of Cortland.
State support for the Grace Brown House includes the allocation of federal low-income housing tax credits that will generate about $4.6 million in equity and $365,000 in subsidy from Homes and Community Renewal. The Homeless Housing and Assistance Program, which is administered by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is providing $1.9 million.
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is providing approximately $25,000 in grant funding to the project. In addition, the Federal Home Loan Bank is providing $500,000. Supportive services and operating funding will be provided under the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative and administered by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.
All apartments are affordable to households earning at or below 50 percent of the area median income. The project includes two apartments adapted to be fully accessible for individuals with mobility impairments and two units fully accessible for individuals with hearing or vision impairments.
Building amenities will include a community room, a children's play area, common laundry facilities, a computer lab, property manager and supportive services staff offices, an outdoor patio, and a playground. There is a public transportation pick-up and drop-off location in front of the site. ■