A transformative new affordable housing initiative has officially broken ground in East New York. The $270 million development, called Innovative Urban Village Phase 1A, marks the beginning of a multi-phase effort to reimagine the campus of the Christian Cultural Center (CCC). Phase 1A will deliver 385 affordable apartments and a full-service grocery store to an area long underserved by healthy food options.
Laying the Foundation for a Community-Centered Vision
This first phase is just the start of a broader redevelopment that will ultimately include approximately 2,000 affordable homes, new commercial and community spaces, and green infrastructure. Spearheaded by a partnership between Monadnock Development, the Gotham Organization, and CCC, the project is being recognized as a model for inclusive, community-driven planning.
All apartments in Phase 1A will be income-restricted for families earning between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Notably, 94 of the homes will be reserved for individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. These residents will also have access to on-site supportive services provided by the Urban Resource Institute, including legal help, case management, mental health services, and nutritional counseling.
“This project is helping us fight the housing affordability crisis while also prioritizing improvements that will make the neighborhood more livable for families,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.
Sustainability at the Core
The Urban Village will feature a wide range of environmentally conscious design elements, including solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, green roofs, ENERGY STAR appliances, and all-electric heating and cooling systems. In addition, the development will add pedestrian-friendly streets and three acres of publicly accessible green space.
The architectural vision — led by Practice for Architecture and Urbanism in collaboration with SLCE Architects — emphasizes walkability, sustainability, and community engagement. The site also qualifies for $28 million in environmental cleanup tax credits through New York State’s Brownfield Cleanup Program.
A Blueprint for Long-Term Impact
Over time, the CCC campus will evolve to include ten new buildings offering not just housing, but critical neighborhood resources — from childcare centers and workforce development programs to senior services and a performing arts venue. The project is designed to support residents across income levels and throughout every stage of life.
“This is all about transforming lives and communities,” said Rev. A.R. Bernard, senior pastor of CCC. “We are confident that the ripple effects of this dynamic mixed-income community will be felt far beyond East New York, setting an example for all of New York to follow.”
Uniting Public and Private Support
The project is backed by a broad coalition of public and private entities. New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is contributing over $160 million, including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Additional support comes from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Goldman Sachs’ Urban Investment Group, and several other financial partners.
Local leaders, including Mayor Eric Adams, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have praised the effort as a blueprint for successful collaboration between government and private sector partners.
“The best way to tackle our city’s housing crisis is to build more affordable housing, and that is exactly what our administration is doing,” said Mayor Adams. “‘Innovative Urban Village’ will bring more homes, more jobs, and more joy to Brooklyn, while giving more New Yorkers access to a brighter future in this vibrant community.”
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