News Summary
Syracuse is undertaking significant housing developments to address its affordable housing crisis. A new platform has been launched for residents to find affordable housing options, while city officials plan to construct a major housing complex with 260 apartments for low-income tenants. The city aims to secure necessary financing and has outlined ambitious plans for the future, including additional initiatives that promote diversity and inclusivity within the housing sector.
Syracuse, New York is embarking on significant housing developments aimed at addressing the ongoing affordable housing crisis in the region. The New York State Homes & Community Renewal department has launched an upgraded version of its New York Housing Search website, providing a convenient platform for individuals and families to search for affordable housing options. The enhanced website allows users to apply for open affordable housing lotteries online and catalogs available lotteries and waitlists statewide, especially assisting families, seniors, veterans, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
City officials in Syracuse are focused on a major housing complex that could become the largest in over 50 years, located on the site of the former Syracuse Developmental Center. The project, led by Mayor Ben Walsh’s administration, has progressed through over three years of planning, with the first phase of construction projected to begin in 2026. This $134 million development entails two five-story buildings comprising 260 apartments for tenants with below-average incomes, while the entire project, if fully realized, could encompass approximately 460 apartments and up to 85 townhomes.
The financing for this ambitious project remains pending, as its approval is required from the Common Council during a meeting coinciding with the announcement of these plans. Councilor Pat Hogan has expressed concerns regarding whether the city will achieve the best possible project outcome. He intends to convene committee meetings to further evaluate the proposal.
Project Details
Syracuse nonprofit Home HeadQuarters will manage the development of 27 townhomes aimed at buyers earning no more than 100% of the median income, which is approximately $72,500 for an individual. Initial rental prices for the apartments are expected to be affordable for residents earning between 50% and 80% of the area median income, with further delineation for various unit types. The first phase of construction will be primarily funded by state financing that will cover nearly 90% of the development costs.
The Common Council must authorize the use of $11 million in unallocated state funding for a low-cost loan to Albanese Organization Inc., the developer. Additionally, $18.8 million in new bonds for necessary infrastructure development must also receive approval. Concerns have been raised about the potential inclusion of market-rate housing in a future phase, as this could undermine the goal of creating a mixed-income community.
Land Management and Background
The city will maintain control over the land designated for future developments, initially permitting Albanese only the area required for the construction of the two buildings. The site was previously the Syracuse Developmental Center, which fell into disuse and was repossessed by the city for back taxes in 2019. The state Division of Housing and Community Renewal is set to provide low-income housing tax credits for the first phase of the development, with Goldman Sachs confirmed to purchase these credits.
Furthermore, Home HeadQuarters is working to secure state grants for the townhomes under the Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program, which offers up to $200,000 to help reduce unit pricing.
Additional Housing Initiatives
In a related initiative, a new development titled Rosie on Syracuse’s Near Eastside is underway, promising to bring 286 apartments and 1,000 square feet of retail space along East Genesee Street. Rosie will offer various apartment types, featuring a combination of market-rate units and 34 affordable units tailored for those earning 80% of the area median income. The focus of Rosie is on professional and workforce housing rather than student accommodation, targeting young professionals, empty nesters, and graduate students.
Importantly, the Rosie project promotes inclusivity by involving minority- and female-owned businesses in its development process. Although price points for the Rosie units have not yet been revealed, assurances have been made that they will reflect market rates.
These developments signify a proactive effort by Syracuse officials and community organizations to alleviate the pressing affordable housing crisis in the area. With multiple projects underway, hopes are high for the creation of needed housing options for a diverse range of residents within the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Syracuse.com: Walsh Administration Pushes to Start Biggest Syracuse Housing Development in Decades
- Syracuse.com: Could This Factory-Built Home Be the Answer to Syracuse’s Affordable Housing Crisis?
- CNY Central: Syracuse Breaks Ground on New Housing Project Aimed at Diversity, Affordability
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
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