Governor Kathy Hochul joined officials and community leaders in Harlem to mark the grand opening of the National Urban League Empowerment Center, which now houses the organization’s new national headquarters. The event also celebrated a return to Harlem for the National Urban League, which was founded there in 1910. The center is part of a $242 million mixed-use development aimed at boosting affordable housing, economic opportunity, and community resources along 125th Street.
The Urban League Empowerment Center features retail outlets including Trader Joe’s and Target, 170 units of affordable and supportive housing, space for nonprofits, and will soon be home to the Urban Civil Rights Museum—the first such museum in New York State. Empire State Development (ESD) provided over $20 million toward the project. Funding from New York State Homes and Community Renewal included federal tax credits generating $34.7 million in equity, as well as additional support from state programs.
“Harlem has always stood at the heart of our nation’s civil rights story, and the new Urban League Empowerment Center works to ensure that legacy will continue for generations to come,” Governor Hochul said. “This project embodies what happens when we invest in people and places, creating affordable housing, bringing jobs and essential retail to 125th Street, and reaffirming New York’s commitment to equity and opportunity. I’m proud to celebrate this milestone with the National Urban League and all the partners who helped bring this vision to life.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of ESD stated: “The Urban League Empowerment Center represents a true model of inclusive economic development — a project that not only honors Harlem’s history but also strengthens its future. ESD was proud to play a leading role in making this transformative investment possible, combining State resources and community input to deliver housing, retail, cultural space, and the National Urban League’s permanent home. This is economic empowerment in action, and a powerful example of how collaboration can drive both progress and justice.”
Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League said: “We are grateful for Governor Hochul’s support for this transformative economic development project — the state has helped to make history in Harlem.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas from New York State Homes and Community Renewal commented: “The National Urban League Empowerment Center honors the legacy of the Civil Rights movement and New York’s commitment to fair housing and social justice. The 170 affordable and supportive homes in the heart of Harlem are a critical part of this $242 million transformative community investment, and will provide the high quality, stable homes the neighborhood needs. We are proud to be a part of this collaborative effort that continues to revitalize Harlem and offer opportunities for residents now and in the future.”
New York City Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Félix V. Matos Rodríguez (City University of New York Chancellor) and William D. Rahm (CEO of Everview Partners) added: “The Urban League Empowerment Center is a powerful example of how public-private collaboration can create lasting, community-driven impact. This project brings affordable housing, jobs, and new cultural assets to Harlem while reaffirming New York City’s leadership in inclusive economic growth. The Council is proud to have supported a vision that honors Harlem’s legacy and builds opportunity for its future.”
Barbara C. Guinn from New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance noted: “This incredible development will have a very positive impact on the community, and we join our partners in celebrating the completion of the Urban League Empowerment Center. We are grateful for the inclusion of supportive housing in this development, which will provide stable housing and services to young adults who have experienced homelessness, bringing them stability and helping them thrive as part of this community.”
State Senator Cordell Cleare said: “Today we welcome the National Urban League back home to Harlem, the Black Capital of the World. 125th Street is the proper place for enriching services… Congratulations to those who made it possible…”
Located between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and Lenox Avenue/Malcolm X Boulevard on a 42,000-square-foot site developed by multiple partners including BRP Companies; L+M Development Partners; Taconic Partners; as well as city agencies—the complex provides substantial retail space (66,000 square feet), office space (75,000 square feet), community facility space (55,000 square feet), plus residential units.
The upcoming Urban Civil Rights Museum has received $250,000 through Market New York grants intended for branding efforts.
This initiative extends over ten years’ worth of work by ESD alongside local organizations focused on revitalizing Harlem’s main corridor through increased access to jobs/housing/economic inclusion.
