June 30, 2016
New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) announced that the Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC) approved three grants through its Public Housing Modernization Program to upgrade facilities that house nearly 350 families.
HCR Commissioner James S. Rubin said: “Governor Andrew Cuomo is delivering on his commitment that New Yorkers in every part of the State have a dignified, well-maintained and safe place to live. These Housing Trust Fund grants will enable each public housing authority to complete essential capital repairs that will enhance the quality of life for residents.”
The following Public Housing Modernization Program grants have been awarded:
- $700,000 to replace 15 of 33 roofs at the 150-unit Colin Kelly Heights development, managed by the Tonawanda Housing Authority in Erie County. In addition, a mechanical engineering firm will be engaged to investigate the sources of leaks and breaks of water mains at the complex and propose remediation.
- $200,000 in additional funds for asbestos abatement at the 96-unit Valley View Courts, managed by the Little Falls Housing Authority in Herkimer County. The abatement is part of a larger exterior and façade upgrade at the development.
- $158,226 for the expansion of a handicapped accessibility project at the 100-unit Brady Acres complex, managed by the Wilna Housing Authority in Jefferson County. The funds will be used to create additional handicapped parking next to the main office as well as connect two separate roadways at the rear of the complex. The separate roads were an impediment to quick access for emergency vehicles.
The Public Housing Modernization Program was established in 1980 to provide grants to State-aided public housing developments where rental income is insufficient and funds are unavailable from other sources for necessary repairs and improvements.
The grants typically are used to repair or replace roofs, heating and ventilation systems; renovate elevators and plumbing systems; modernize bathrooms and kitchens; upgrade windows and electrical systems; repoint masonry; test for lead and provide asbestos abatement.