New York Construction Report staff writer
The New York City Public Housing Preservation Trust has awarded a contract to Technico Construction Services to begin planning the modernization of Hylan Houses in Brooklyn, marking the first time the Trust and NYCHA will use a progressive design-build delivery method for a public housing project.
The contract execution follows approval by the Trust Board on June 10, and advances a planned renovation of 209 apartments and shared spaces in a single 19-story building at the Bushwick development. Hylan Houses is the fourth NYCHA development where residents voted to participate in the Trust, with that vote taking place in April 2025.
The project will use a progressive design-build approach, an alternative construction delivery method that brings the owner, designers and builders together early in the process to develop the project scope, schedule and cost. The approach is intended to increase collaboration, transparency and efficiency while incorporating resident priorities into the final design.
“The selection of a progressive design-build team for Hylan Houses — a first for the Trust and NYCHA — marks an important step forward in delivering the comprehensive renovations residents deserve,” NYCHA Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt said. “By bringing all parties — including residents, designers and builders — together from the outset, this collaborative approach will help ensure the project reflects community priorities while delivering the best value through a transparent, efficient and coordinated process.”
Trust President Vlada Kenniff said the project demonstrates the purpose of the Trust’s expanded construction tools, which were created to help speed up major capital improvements.
“The execution of this contract is a major milestone not only for Hylan Houses, but also for the Trust, as it marks the launch of our first Progressive Design-Build partnership,” Kenniff said. “This innovative delivery method was specifically authorized through the Trust legislation to support greater collaboration, transparency and efficiency in delivering large-scale capital improvements.”
Technico Construction Services will partner with STV and Preservation Logistics LLC to lead the modernization effort. The team will oversee design development and construction planning through an integrated approach that combines design and building services.
“Technico-STV is proud to be part of the team leading this flagship progressive-design build with the NYC Public Housing Preservation Trust,” said Steve Aniftos, president and CEO of Technico Construction Services Inc. “Our extensive experience in the progressive design-build space along with a shared vision of creating safe, sustainable public housing for New Yorkers will help us continue the Trust’s success.”
The contractor selection followed a two-stage procurement process. The Trust first issued a Request for Qualifications, which resulted in a shortlist of three design-build teams. The finalists were then invited to submit detailed proposals through a Request for Proposals issued in February 2026.
A selection committee made up of resident representatives, NYCHA property management staff and capital projects professionals evaluated the proposals and selected Technico based on the team’s qualifications and overall value to Hylan Houses residents.
Resident participation will remain a central part of the project. Since August 2024, Hylan Houses residents have taken part in engagement efforts to help shape the modernization plan, including input on design elements such as finishes and colors. Residents will continue to participate through an advisory council during the renovation process.
Hylan Houses residents also provided feedback that helped inform the procurement process, and a dedicated liaison will continue serving as a point of contact between residents, the Trust and project partners.
The modernization is expected to address the major improvement areas outlined in the 2019 agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development while keeping the development 100% public. Under the Trust model, Hylan Houses will transition to the federally funded Project-Based Section 8 program, while residents retain their rights, including permanently affordable rents.
The design, financing and construction process is expected to be completed in 2029.
