City Planning Commission Approves Grace Houses Development to Boost Affordable Housing in East New York

The City Planning Commission discussed the Grace Houses development project during a recent public meeting, highlighting plans to create over 150 income-restricted housing units while ensuring community benefits. The proposed seven-story mixed-use building aims to not only facilitate affordable housing but also enable a longstanding faith-based organization to maintain its presence in the neighborhood.

The Department of City Planning expressed support for the project’s rezoning application, which seeks to alter the existing land use regulations to promote greater residential density consistent with the neighborhood’s character (Source: https://youtu.be/WVPsQLcT0tQ&t=433). The rezoning would extend the current residential district along Liberty Avenue, allowing for the integration of income-restricted housing in East New York, where there is a significant demand for affordable living options.

The development’s proponents have committed to a robust community engagement process and are working closely with local stakeholders to address concerns and needs. As part of this, they are developing a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that aims to secure additional resources for community improvements and ensure that local residents can benefit from the economic activity generated by the project (Source: https://youtu.be/6gPqCIUkeQY&t=10676).

Notably, the CBA includes plans for social services that will target vulnerable populations, such as domestic violence survivors, as well as commitments for job training and employment opportunities for local residents. The applicant has pledged to create a significant number of union jobs, thereby enhancing economic prospects for the community surrounding the Grace Houses development (Source: https://youtu.be/rleQ5Ewx6rI&t=1226).

The multifaceted approach of the project, including its focus on affordable housing and community resource provision, aligns with broader city initiatives aimed at increasing housing productions while enhancing overall community welfare (Source: https://youtu.be/WVPsQLcT0tQ&t=13337). As the project progresses, the Department of City Planning will continue to monitor developments to ensure that the stated community benefits are realized effectively and sustainably.