Controversial Development Opens Affordable Housing Lottery In Brooklyn

CROWN HEIGHTS, NY — A controversial apartment building on the Hebron School campus in Crown Heights is nearing completion and is set to bring nearly 50 affordable housing units to the community.

Approved by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2021 despite opposition from neighbors and local officials, the building at 959 Sterling Place has been criticized as a "tragedy" by some, who believe it undermines the "Crown Jewel" of the neighborhood.

Construction commenced after a prolonged battle to halt the project. Developers Hope Street Capital were permitted to build the apartment complex on the site in return for a $21.5 million renovation of the Hebron Seventh-Day Adventist School.

The new seven-story, 157-unit development, named Mason Gray, was created by Hope Street Capital and designed by the renowned firm Morris Adjmi Architects. The complex mirrors the historic building at 920 Park Place in both color and design, featuring zinc shingles, gables and staggered massing, developers said.

The entire structure comprises 158 residences, with 48 units designated for residents earning up to 130 percent of the area median income (AMI). You can check your AMI here.

Eligible incomes for these units range from $107,246 to $218,010 a year for one to five people.

Available units include studios priced at $3,128 a month, one-bedroom apartments at $3,345 and two-bedroom apartments at $4,001.

Amenities include pet-friendly policies, a virtual doorman and common area Wi-Fi. Each unit features hardwood floors, patios or balconies, washers and dryers and high-end kitchen appliances, countertops and finishes.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for the available apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online by Sept. 13, 2024.

Households of one to five people are encouraged to apply. Tenants will be responsible for electricity, including the electric stove, while heat and hot water are included with the rent.

You can apply via NYC Housing Connect here.