Mayor Eric Adams, alongside key city officials, marked a major construction achievement in New York's largest affordable housing initiative in four decades with the completion of the frames for the first two buildings at Willets Point. The "topping off" ceremony celebrated the halfway point of the first phase of a project that promises 880 affordable housing units for working-class New Yorkers. The expansive project, unveiled in November 2022, is set to deliver over 2,500 homes in total, along with a host of amenities including a new school, retail space, and a soccer stadium for New York City Football Club (NYCFC), according to official statements released by the Mayor's Office.
The Willets Point project, which began construction in December 2023, is designed to support affordable housing and is projected to contribute to local economic activity through the creation of both permanent and construction-related jobs. "Cities can still do bold, ambitious things that make life safer and more affordable for working-class people," Mayor Adams stated in the press release. Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce Adolfo Carrión Jr. expressed support for the project, highlighting its emphasis on serving the working class and contributing to community development.
The planned soccer stadium is set to become the first fully-electric venue of its kind in New York City, contributing to the city's green initiatives. By utilizing existing infrastructure, such as Citi Field's parking facilities, the venue aligns with the city's environmental goals. NYCFC CEO Brad Sims highlighted the collaboration with the Queens Development Group and the local community in advancing the project, which is part of a broader community development effort.
The construction of Building 3, designated for affordable senior housing, is set to begin soon, advancing the plan for Willets Point as a developing neighborhood. The project includes measures to address flooding concerns, such as raising the new structures above the floodplain. Located near major transit hubs and sports venues, Willets Point is expected to evolve into a key area of Queens. According to the Queens Development Group, the 2,500 homes are part of a larger plan that also includes investments in environmental sustainability through green certifications and community hiring programs.
The effort to implement this vision for Willets Point reflects New York City's approach to development. As cities across the country face challenges related to affordable housing and infrastructure, the focus on addressing housing, employment, and resiliency is a key aspect of the project, which may influence future discussions on urban development strategies.
