Empire State Today

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the completion of River Avenue, a 245-unit affordable and supportive housing development in the Concourse section of the Bronx. The transit-oriented development includes over 20,000 square feet of commercial space and offers on-site supportive services for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

"River Avenue will provide a safe, modern, and affordable place for individuals and families to call home and will be nothing short of transformative for those experiencing homelessness," Governor Hochul said. She further emphasized her administration's dedication to increasing the supply of housing in the Bronx and throughout the state to provide stable homes in thriving neighborhoods.

In the last five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has created or preserved over 14,500 affordable homes in the Bronx. River Avenue continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul's comprehensive Housing Plan, aiming to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York, including support services for vulnerable populations.

River Avenue, designed to meet green building standards, is affordable to households earning at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income. The development offers various amenities and energy-efficient features to enhance residents' quality of life.

148 apartments at River Avenue are reserved for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, with on-site supportive services funded through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative. The program provides operating funding for supportive service providers serving various vulnerable populations.

The $120 million River Avenue project received financing from state and city sources, with Community Access, Inc. and J. Equities II, LLC leading the development. Community Access CEO Cal Hedigan expressed pride in celebrating the opening, highlighting the life-changing impact of affordable and supportive housing.

Various officials and representatives also commended the completion of River Avenue. State and city leaders, including New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas, New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan, and New York City Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr., recognized the project's contributions to affordable housing and supportive services in the Bronx.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer applauded the use of federal funding in building the affordable apartments, emphasizing the importance of increasing access to quality housing in New York. Representative Ritchie Torres praised Governor Hochul's Housing Plan for enabling initiatives like River Avenue, which provide crucial support services to vulnerable populations.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and Council Member Althea Stevens also lauded the project for balancing affordable housing, amenities, and supportive services to benefit the community's overall well-being.

In closing, the completion of River Avenue stands as a beacon of hope, embodying collaborative efforts to create a more equitable and compassionate New York for all residents.