Baobab Village: A Community-Driven Solution to East New York’s Housing Crisis

The proposed Baobab Village has sparked interest in East New York as a community-driven response to the housing crisis, promising significant affordable housing options. At a public scoping meeting held on January 22, 2026, stakeholders outlined plans for the development, which aims to provide 826 residential units, with a substantial portion designated as affordable housing.

Reverend David K. Broly, representing St. Paul Community Baptist Church and a leader of the Baobab Village initiative, emphasized the need for stable housing as a cornerstone for healthier families and dignified living for seniors. He noted the urgency of the project, as many community members struggle with housing affordability and are at risk of displacement. The approach taken by the church aims to uphold the legacy of community support that has characterized its nearly 100-year history.

The project will feature a mixture of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units, catering to individuals and families with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI). Specific allocations will address the needs of formally homeless individuals and families, ensuring inclusivity in housing options (Source: https://youtu.be/0UEFgAbiEf0&t=1440).

In a comprehensive presentation, the architecture team conveyed that the housing will be interspersed with community facility space to bolster local services. The development seeks to include approximately 20,000 square feet dedicated to community use, with half of that set for transitional housing support for adults facing mental health challenges (Source: https://youtu.be/9GPlXlI87pY&t=13541).

Local leaders welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its potential to revitalize the neighborhood and enhance the quality of life for long-standing residents. By blending affordable housing with community resources, the Baobab Village aims not only to secure homes but also to cultivate a thriving environment where residents can flourish (Source: https://youtu.be/0UEFgAbiEf0&t=1348).

Comments from the public are being accepted through February 2, 2026, allowing community members unable to attend the meeting to engage with the project. The collaborative effort behind Baobab Village exemplifies a model for future developments tackling the ongoing housing affordability crisis in New York City (Source: https://youtu.be/0UEFgAbiEf0&t=2906).