Finding affordable housing is a challenge nearly everywhere in the country. In states like New York, where the average cost of living is one of the highest in the nation, it can be almost impossible for the average worker to afford to keep a roof over their heads. New York, at least, is trying to counter this challenge by shifting its focus toward affordable housing. What is the Empire State’s plan to make it easier for its citizens to find a home?

A Growing Housing Crisis in New York

Housing in the Empire State is fast approaching a crisis point. Rent costs have continued to increase while wages haven’t kept up. Between 2005 and 2012, rent costs climbed by 40%. Wages only grew by 15%, leaving populations struggling to keep a roof over their heads. Even in areas where public housing is available, it’s often poor quality and even dangerous. Mold, a lack of heating and pests are just a few of the common complaints about New York public housing.
While New York hasn’t experienced a housing fire or other tragedy in recent years — like ones we’ve seen in London or Los Angeles all it takes is one missed electrical inspection to turn New York public housing from an inconvenience to an absolute catastrophe. That, and the general unaffordability of housing in the state, is what New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is trying to combat with his new housing plan.

Breaking Ground on Mount Aaron Village

At the beginning of August, construction began on what will eventually be Mount Aaron Village in Buffalo, New York. This complex will ultimately contain 59 units, including multiple units designed specifically for people who need assistance to live independently. “We have made an unprecedented commitment to address housing and homelessness across our state, including creating thousands of new affordable and supportive housing units for New Yorkers,” said Governor Cuomo.
This groundbreaking strategy is just the first step in the governor’s plan to provide affordable housing to those in need throughout his state. Over the next five years, the state plans to build or remodel more than 100,000 homes and apartments as part of this affordable housing plan. The program also includes plans for more than 6,000 units for those who need assistance.
All told, New York is planning to spend more than $20 billion to ensure that everyone who wants a home will have access to an affordable place to live.

Opportunities Abound for Savvy Construction Companies

The construction industry as a whole is in a bit of a holding pattern thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. In some states, construction is considered essential. In others, it gets classified as non-essential or gets limited to emergency or critical infrastructure work as various regions try to slow the spread of the virus.
Either way, with projects like the New York affordable housing plan moving forward, there are plenty of opportunities available for savvy construction companies. That is, as long as they’re willing to work with the state to create affordable housing for everyone.

Looking Toward an Affordable Future

Affordable housing in places like New York won’t happen overnight, but breaking ground on Mount Aaron Village is a step in the right direction. At this point, only time will tell if the governor will continue to push for more affordable housing in the Empire State. Maybe New York will set a precedent for other states on those high-cost-of-living lists.
This initiative could remind them that we don’t need to let things reach a crisis point before we start making changes and providing affordable housing for everyone who needs it.
Bio:
This article was written by Emily Folk, a freelance writer covering topics in green technology and sustainability. You can follow her on her blog, Conservation Folks, or Twitter @EmilySFolk for her latest updates.