East New York will be adding hundreds of new affordable homes under the second phase of the Innovative Urban Village project, a collaboration between the city, state, Christian Cultural Center and two developers.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Rev. A. R. Bernard on Thursday unveiled Phase 1B of the project, which will create over 450 new units of affordable housing in Starrett City. The building will set aside 15% of its units for formerly homeless New Yorkers.
This phase, costing about $313 million, includes 10,250-square-feet of retail and commercial space; 12,600-square-feet of daycare space; and a new 9,500-square-foot playground.
“When we came into office, we said it was time to turn the page on decades of discrimination and outdated rules and instead turn New York into a ‘City of Yes’ where every person can make it," Adams said. "This project, in the heart of East New York, will help us get there, bringing thousands of new homes to the neighborhood and creating a holistic community with fresh food, child care, the arts and more."
The entire Innovative Urban Village is expected to create up to 2,000 homes in East New York over the coming years. Phase 1A is expected to create over 380 affordable homes as well as a grocery store for the community.
“I grew up in Bed-Stuy, Bushwick, and East New York. Never did I imagine that I would have the opportunity to bring this kind of change to a community that I grew up in,” said Rev. Bernard. “This shows what is possible when government, the private sector, and not-for-profits come together to change the narrative in underserved communities like East New York. It used to be the way up was out. We want to make sure the way up is right here."
The developers are Gotham Organization and Monadnock Development.
By offering affordable homes, including units for formerly homeless individuals, with vital services like child care, retail, and green space, we are investing in the future,” said state Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.
