Construction has begun on Lebechi East, a 95-unit affordable housing development in Brownsville that will replace a vacant former police precinct with new apartments and a community health facility.
The project will bring a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom units for households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income. Fifty-seven apartments will be designated as supportive housing, including for people experiencing homelessness. Additional units are designed for residents with mobility and sensory disabilities.
Xenolith Partners is developing Lebechi East in partnership with Family Services Network of New York and Galaxy GC Group. The nonprofit will provide on-site services such as case management, counseling, job training, education support and legal assistance, with funding for supportive units backed by a state housing initiative administered through the Department of Health.
“Creating more affordable housing and expanding access to supportive services are central to making New York more affordable and more livable for all,” Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “Our investment in Lebechi East will help deliver much-needed modern, high-quality apartments to Brooklyn and ensure more New Yorkers have access to critical health and wellness resources.”
The 11-story building will include a community room, fitness space, play area and landscaped outdoor areas. It is designed to meet Passive House and Enterprise Green Communities standards, with all-electric systems, heat-pump water heaters, LED lighting and Energy Star appliances.
A nearly 6,000-square-foot health care facility on the ground floor will offer primary and preventive services to residents and the surrounding community.
The development also involves the New York City Housing Authority, which contributed development rights and underused land from the nearby Howard Houses campus. At least eight apartments will be set aside for current NYCHA residents.
