Utica's cityscape has a new addition following the completion of the Impact Utica project. The initiative, led by Governor Kathy Hochul, saw the creation of 167 units of public and affordable housing through a partnership with People First, Inc., and Vecino Group New York.
Bolstering the city's affordable housing, the project consisted of preserving 93 public housing units at Chancellor Apartments and introducing 74 new affordable units at the Broad Street Apartments, which was, according to a statement by Governor Hochul, "a testament to our commitment to providing safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for all New Yorkers." Chancellor Apartments received significant renovations including a new roof and improved kitchens, while Broad Street Apartments revitalized a historic former warehouse, according to the New York State press release.
In addition to traditional housing options, the initiative placed a notable emphasis on at-risk youth by integrating 24 units at Broad Street Apartments with supportive services to assist this vulnerable group. "This housing development will provide quality affordable homes for many, including safe, supportive housing for 24 young adults," told New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn. Services will include case management and job training referrals, addressing the often overlooked needs of this demographic, as per the New York State.
The environmental footprint of the construction did not go unnoticed, with both housing sites boasting highly energy-efficient designs, ensuring a sustainable future for residents. The new Broad Street Apartments is all-electric and meets the 2020 Enterprise Green Communities criteria, featuring energy recovery ventilation systems amongst other efficiency measures. Similarly, the updated Chancellor Apartments are expected to consume 20 percent less energy going forward, thanks to the installation of electric air source heat pumps and energy-efficient lighting.
Financially underpinning the Impact Utica project was a mix of state and federal tax credits and subsidies, including over $76 million from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR). In total, these investments are expected to help generate significant equity, as well as substantial investment into the area. "By revitalizing Chancellor Apartments and transforming the historic Avalon Knitting Mill into Broad Street Apartments, we're providing 167 energy-efficient homes," New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said. Efforts on this scale reflect the broader goal of Governor Hochul’s housing plan, aiming to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across the state, as noted by the press release from New York State.
