Weatherization Works!

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) celebrates 41ST anniversary and resiliency efforts

Since 2011 NYS HCR has provided Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) services to 118,600 low-income households – investing more than $738 million.  Weatherization helps people throughout the State: tenants living in large apartment complexes, home owners in single family homes, co-ops, mobile homes, and even group homes and homeless shelters.  HCR prioritizes work that benefits families with children or seniors, persons with disabilities and others on fixed incomes.  We target supportive and special needs housing, Section 8 projects and other publicly-assisted rental housing to help maintain long-term affordability.  Weatherization provides good, green jobs and supports local economies by reducing expenditures on energy that’s imported from outside the region.  The program is delivered statewide by a network of 53 weatherization subgrantees. One of these is the Community Development Corporation of Long Island (CDCLI). 

The WAP celebrated its 41st birthday on October 30th, 2017. Not only was this the WAP’s birthday, it also marked the 5th anniversary of Superstorm Sandy. In the spirit of resiliency, an event was held at CDCLI to highlight the impacts on one building – the Sol Scher apartments. This is a 75-unit senior residence expected to have $127,724 of WAP funds invested in it, alongside an additional $21,216 in owner contributions from the LB Housing Authority.   

The building energy audit identified a work scope that will result in improved ventilation and air quality; better, more energy efficient lighting; greater water conservation; and air sealing which will improve comfort as well as heating efficiency, realizing an annual cost savings estimated to be $10,101. This should reduce the building’s electric consumption by 20%. With these WAP investments, plus the progress LB Housing Authority has already made, the building is an inspiring example of resiliency following the wreckage wrought by Superstorm Sandy.  The $1.3 million in Weatherization funds HCR and CDC of Long Island invested since Superstorm Sandy hit has left 186 units healthier, more resilient and more energy efficient.