121-Unit Affordable Housing Development Opens In Bed-Stuy

BED-STUY, NY — The "gold standard" for affordable housing and community care opened last week in Bed-Stuy, bringing the neighborhood 121 new affordable units.

Work finished on the completely affordable Herkimer Gardens, situated across from Interfaith Medical Center on Herkimer Street between Albany and Troy avenues, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday.

All 121 units will house residents making up to 80 percent of the area median income — with studios hitting the lottery in February for as little as $560 a month.

With 60 apartments earmarked for residents over 62 needing extra care, the $60 million project has aspirations beyond just housing.

"This affordable and supportive housing will be just a small token of gratitude to our seniors for their lifetimes building our neighborhoods into the precious places they are today," said City Council Member Chi Ossé. "The investment is to everyone’s benefit, as it keeps our communities whole."

The 8-story building sits in the former parking lot for Interfaith Medical Center, and will include a 5,900-square-foot community health facility and food pantry operated by Hunger Free America.

The space also houses an urban farm, recreational terrace with fitness classes, free Wi-Fi and shared laundry.

“Herkimer Gardens is the manifestation of our community’s values to incorporate wellness, dignity, and holistic care into residential spaces for older adults and people with disabilities," said Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman in a statement.

Another 85-unit affordable housing development, dubbed Dekalb Commons, broke ground in September on Dekalb Avenue and on Fulton Street.

The units in Dekalb Commons will be reserved for locals making between 27 and 77 percent of area median income.