Westchester County's latest affordable housing development, Maple Commons, is now complete, Governor Kathy Hochul declared. Situated in the walkable village of Croton-on-Hudson, this $18 million duo-building complex showcases its commitment towards fostering accessible housing and efficient living. Housing 33 homes that cater to residents earning up to 80 percent of the Area Median Income, Maple Commons not only contributes to Westchester's affordable housing stock but also to the Governor's broader goal of 100,000 such homes statewide, part of a $25 billion five-year plan.
In a landscape where escalating living costs continue to pose a challenge, Maple Commons represents a hopeful stride forward. "Maple Commons brings critically needed affordable apartments to Croton-on-Hudson, one of the State’s first Pro-Housing Communities," Governor Hochul said. The site includes an 8,000 square foot public park, and spaces like a playground, ensuring the community benefits extend beyond the newly housed. All dwellings are equipped with free high-speed internet, affirming the necessity of connectivity in today's world.
Emphasizing sustainability, Maple Commons aligns with New York's larger environmental aspirations. It has earned certification under the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's New Construction – Housing Program for its high-energy efficiency. Accommodations for residents feature eco-friendly space heating, cooling, as well as water heating measures. NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris remarked to Governor Kathy Hochul's office, "New York's built environment plays a significant role in our progress towards a sustainable future, and new construction projects like Maple Commons ensure that we are taking steps forward."
Funding for this project was sourced both at the state and federal levels. The State and Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits will generate $11.1 million in equity, and there's an additional $1.7 million in subsidy from the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (NYSHCR). Westchester County has also chipped in, providing $1.7 million through their New Homes Land Acquisition Program. NYSHCR Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas highlighted to Governor Kathy Hochul's office, “Our $18 million investment in Maple Commons has helped create 33 new, affordable homes that will provide opportunities to live in a safe, family-friendly community."
Senator Charles Schumer applauded the effort and the impact of federal initiatives like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, stating to Governor Kathy Hochul's office, “Every family in Westchester deserves a safe and affordable place to call home." The Pro-Housing Community Program, integral to accessing a $650 million discretionary fund, lists Croton-on-Hudson among its certified locales. In tandem with Hochul's housing agenda, which includes building up to 15,000 new homes on state-owned property and reinforcing renter and homeowner protections, Maple Commons emerges as a tangible testament to New York's housing strategy.
