44-Unit Development will Provide Supportive and Affordable Housing Options in Jamaica, Queens
New York – (RealEstateRama) — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the groundbreaking of a $17 million housing development in Jamaica, Queens. The mixed-use housing development will feature 44 units and provide tenants with behavioral health concerns a number of supportive mental health services to promote independence and self-sufficiency. The development is expected to be completed by late 2018 and will be operated by Transitional Services for New York, Inc.
“Safe, affordable housing should be accessible to everyone, especially our most vulnerable, and with the addition of this new development, we are building on our efforts to ensure that all New Yorkers have a place to call home,” Governor Cuomo said. “This project will provide men and women access to the services they need to lead a healthy, stable life, while supporting brighter, more sustainable communities in Queens for years to come.”
The seven-story apartment building, located at 88-45 163rd Street, will be fully handicapped accessible. The building will feature 33 supportive housing units for men and women with serious mental illness, and 11 affordable housing units for low-income individuals or families who qualify.
The first floor of the building will include a kitchen, dining area, laundry facilities, and meeting space available for tenant use. The first floor will also feature high ceilings and wide corridors to provide a welcoming environment and space for interaction between tenants and visitors.
To support this project, the New York State Office of Mental Health provided $10.3 million in interest-free construction financing and debt service, as well as a one-time Program Development Grant of $146,000 for start-up costs including equipment, furnishings, and staffing. New York State Homes and Community Renewal will also support the project with $6.5 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.
Transitional Services for New York, Inc. will offer a wide range of programs and services at the facility, designed to support tenants’ recovery and develop their daily living skills, including assistance with dealing with substance abuse, budgeting, housekeeping, cooking, building support networks, educational and vocational training, and managing personal healthcare needs. Construction of the 88-45 163rd Street housing development is expected to be completed by late 2018.
New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Marie T. Sullivan said, “Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York State has helped build more than 6,000 units of supportive housing over the past four years, with thousands of additional units in development. The road to recovery can require a lot of support, not just from mental health professionals, but from family and friends. Housing developments like this one in Jamaica allow people who are struggling with behavioral health issues to stay close to loved ones and get the help they need.”
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner James S. Rubin said, “This development is another example of Governor Cuomo’s commitment to providing a roof over head as well as services people need to live independently and flourish in their communities. Today’s announcement builds on the awards the Governor announced in September that provide 1,200 supportive housing units for people at risk of homelessness and advance his $10.45 billion Homelessness Action Plan. HCR is thrilled to support this project and we look forward to seeing it come to life.”
Congressman Gregory W. Meeks said, “Governor Cuomo’s plan to construct a mixed use housing development in Jamaica, Queens, will tremendously benefit my district through its $17 million in investments and its increased services. Everyone deserves decent living conditions, regardless of their health or wealth. As a result of this development, there will be better housing opportunities for individuals with mental illnesses and low-income families and this is a positive step toward tackling our City’s housing crisis. I thank the Governor for these efforts.”
State Senator Leroy Comrie said, “Constructing this much-needed housing development will ensure that individuals suffering from mental health challenges can receive necessary help in a secure environment and remain close to their support networks. The state must continue to invest in these vital services and I look forward to working with the administration on this important issue.”
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz said, “This new residence will help expand TSINY’s mental health services to Queens residents. Thanks to TSINY’s services, many with mental illnesses have transitioned to self-sufficient and independent lives through TSINY’s continuum of valuable, rehabilitative and integrative services.”
New York City Council Member Rory I. Lancman said, “Supportive and affordable housing is the best way to help people get back on their feet, and I commend Governor Cuomo for doing whatever it takes to get New Yorkers out of the City’s shelters and into homes. New Yorkers will be able to rebuild their lives and get the type of help they deserve, all under one roof.”
Transitional Services for New York, Inc. CEO Dr. Larry S. Grubler said, “Today, in breaking ground at the new residence, we are opening a new chapter in the history of TSINY, our very first new apartment building. We are grateful for the support we have received from Governor Cuomo, NYS Homes and Community Renewal, the Office of Mental Health and the Queens community and look forward to being part of the revitalization of Jamaica and our local economy.”
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