Residents Demand Transparency as NYCHA Plans to Convert 62,000 Units Amid Controversy

During a Nicha public hearing on March 10, 2025, residents expressed strong concerns about the New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA) plans to convert their buildings under the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) and Project-Based Voucher (PBV) programs. Tenants voiced their discontent with the lack of formal opportunities to oppose these housing conversions, raising questions about the adequacy of engagement from NYCHA.

The hearing highlighted that NYCHA is poised to convert over 30,000 units, with a potential total authority to convert 62,000 units across its portfolio by the end of 2026. Council members and residents alike questioned the transparency of this process, emphasizing a need for better communication and formal voting rights for residents before such major changes occur (Source: https://youtu.be/-qQrd6OHQqo&t=7459).

Residents at the hearing reported a pattern of inadequate repairs and ongoing maintenance issues that persisted even in RAD-converted buildings. They criticized the assertion from NYCHA that these conversions would address structural deficiencies. Many residents argued that their homes are not in disrepair and that claims of needing capital investments to justify conversions are misleading (Source: https://youtu.be/-qQrd6OHQqo&t=8899).

Moreover, several residents raised the issue of tenants feeling intimidated by the process. Instances were reported where tenants faced pressure to support RAD conversions without understanding the implications or having any prior agreement with involved tenant association leaders. Many stated that there was a lack of genuine outreach and engagement from NYCHA, which left the community feeling sidelined (Source: https://youtu.be/-qQrd6OHQqo&t=10815).

Councils members echoed these sentiments, requesting that NYCHA provide tenants with a more meaningful role in decision-making regarding their homes. They called for greater resident engagement and accountability from developers involved in the RAD conversions (Source: https://youtu.be/-qQrd6OHQqo&t=7591).

In earlier coverage, residents from the Fulton and Elliott Chelsea Houses similarly opposed demolition plans set forth by NYCHA, arguing that the agency’s claims of building deterioration did not resonate with their lived experiences. They emphasized their desire for repairs rather than new constructions, supported by petitions signed by nearly 1,000 residents against demolition (Source: https://getlocalpost.com/2025/02/26/fulton-and-elliott-chelsea-house-residents-rally-against-nychas-demolition-plans-cite-strong-community-support).

As the public hearing concluded, residents reiterated their demand for a listening ear and transparent information from NYCHA. They urged that any decisions impacting their communities should involve their input, reflecting their commitment to preserving their homes and ensuring the safety and integrity of their living conditions.