New York Construction News staff writer
A new state program is accepting applications for affordable housing projects in five Upstate New York cities. The Block-By-Block Program, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, will award $40 million to nonprofit organizations to build affordable homes on vacant or underutilized lots in Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse.
“Across New York, we are putting our resources to work to combat the housing crisis, block by block,” Governor Hochul said. “This program is a key part of our comprehensive effort to increase affordable housing, revitalize neighborhoods, and ensure our communities thrive for generations to come.”
Nonprofit organizations can apply to redevelop four and ten vacant lots, with priority given to projects that propose building on contiguous lots or those located on the same block. This “block-by-block” strategy aims to strengthen local housing markets and improve homeownership opportunities, particularly for first-time buyers.
Administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), the program will offer up to $300,000 in subsidies for construction of single-family homes and $400,000 for two-family homes. Funds will enable nonprofits to develop new homes in existing neighborhoods, which will be sold to buyers earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI)—making homeownership accessible to low- and moderate-income families.
“We are excited to partner with talented community organizations to transform vacant lots into homes and strengthen neighborhoods in Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse,” said RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal. “This $40 million investment will not only create new homes but will also help families achieve the dream of homeownership and become integral parts of their communities.”
Mayors from the participating cities welcomed the initiative, each underscoring its potential to drive local revitalization.
Rochester Mayor Malik Evans highlighted the program’s alignment with the city’s own housing initiatives, such as the “Buy the Block” program. “These investments will revitalize neighborhoods that have long been overlooked,” Evans said.
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh added that the Block-By-Block program would complement the city’s Resurgent Neighborhoods Initiative, which has focused on building affordable homes since 2020. “Turning vacant lots into affordable homes strengthens neighborhoods and provides pathways to homeownership for working families,” he said.
