Mount Vernon is taking a significant step forward in expanding affordable housing for seniors with the Waltemade Residence project. Backed by $18.1 million in funding, the development will convert a vacant nursing facility into 102 affordable units for seniors aged 62 and older. This initiative is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s $25 billion housing plan aimed at increasing the state’s affordable housing supply.
The project will include 30 units with supportive services for seniors facing homelessness. By repurposing an unused facility, the Waltemade Residence will provide much-needed housing while revitalizing the community. The development aligns with New York’s broader commitment to tackling the housing crisis through federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funding and state subsidies.
Governor Hochul supports expanding LIHTC through new federal legislation, which could create 100,000 additional affordable units across New York over the next decade. This investment ensures that cities like Mount Vernon continue to receive funding to address housing shortages and improve residents’ quality of life.
The Waltemade Residence will incorporate energy-efficient features under the New York State Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Additionally, all awarded developments will provide free broadband internet through the ConnectALL initiative, bridging the digital divide for lower-income communities.
This project represents a crucial investment in Mount Vernon’s future. By prioritizing affordable, sustainable, and supportive housing, the city is making strides toward a more inclusive and economically vibrant community. The Waltemade Residence is more than just a housing project—it’s a commitment to ensuring that Mount Vernon’s seniors have a safe, stable place to call home.
Mathew Alvarez joined Rockland Daily News as a reporter in March 2020, but he’s no stranger to Rockland County. He grew up in New City and graduated from Ball State’s College of Communication, Information, and Media.
