More affordable housing is coming. If only it could be constructed at the same brisk pace that it’s being reported. But even though months or years must pass before formerly vacant or dilapidated properties are transformed into move-in-ready housing units, every announcement does bring new hope — both that people in need of them will find homes and that formerly blighted neighborhoods will find new life.
Providing immediate shelter to homeless families is important. Making affordable apartments with a good range of size options available is important. And restoring neighborhoods that have been damaged substantially by demolitions — however necessary they were — is key to bringing equity to Buffalo’s most neglected areas.
All those essential components of a housing program that is both equitable and restorative can be found — one way or another — in two recently announced projects and one ongoing development. Given the grave urgency of Western New York’s affordable housing requirements, these and similar initiatives should be monitored closely to make sure they fulfill their missions. From Hamburg to Tonawanda Affordable apartments aren’t just needed in Buffalo.
An Erie County program that has awarded $5.5 million for 11 new apartment complexes will provide 703 affordable units spread across the region. As reported by The News’ Sandra Tan , the new developments, all with additional sources of funding, will offer below-market-rate rents to seniors, people wi.
