Introduction to Coney Island’s Affordable Housing Boom
Officials broke ground on the third and final phase of a major affordable housing development on Surf Avenue in Coney Island.
Katie Prael, Barbara Wagner Communications
The Third Phase of Development
Three’s a charm? After two apartment buildings housing nearly 2,000 residents went up nearby, Brooklyn-based BFC Partners broke ground today on a third Coney Island building that would house another 1,500 residents. The company, which completed Coney I three years ago and Coney II about a year ago, is developing a three-block strip of Surf Avenue across from Maimonides Park, where the Brooklyn Cyclones play.
Details of the New Building
The 12-story building at 1709 Surf Ave., the third final phase of this development, will include 420 affordable housing units. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries — whose district includes parts of south and central Brooklyn including Bed-Stuy, East New York, Gravesend, and Coney Island — joined Mayor Eric Adams and a wide range of officials, residents, lenders and the developer.
A rendering of BFC Partners’ third and final phase of their affordable housing project in Coney Island. File image courtesy of BFC Partners
Community Response and Support
“All these units are affordable,” Don Capoccia, managing principal of developer BFC Partners, told the crowd. “There’s been a very strong response from the community on the units and occupying the units.” The groundbreaking for low- and middle-income housing was held at the start of Housing Week, during which the administration through its “City of Yes” initiative celebrates progress in efforts to build affordable housing. Capoccia thanked the Adams administration as well as Housing Preservation and Development, led by Ahmed Tigani, and Deputy Mayor Adolfo Carrión for being “instrumental” in making the project happen.
The Revitalization of Coney Island
He called “the revitalization of Coney Island” a priority for the Adams administration and cited this project as part of that effort. “I know this lot has been vacant for a long time, long before the stadium was built, long before really the development of our shorelines,” Adams, who said he had been a rookie cop in Coney Island, said. “This is probably one of our last beachfront communities that we can build on.” Jeffries, who on a lighter note mentioned that he went on high school dates across the street, called this an important and “transformational” project for an “iconic community.”
Benefits to the Community
Others touted the construction as making it easier for residents without high incomes to stay or move to locations like this in Coney Island. “This is a great day for Coney Island,” City Council Member Justin Brannan said. “Investing in our people, investing in a safe space for future generations, that’s what this is all about.” The local community board touted its support and appreciation for the construction of all three structures. “These buildings will allow local residents to remain in their neighborhood,” said Community Board 13 Chair Jeffrey Sanoff. “Where they were born and raised, as well as attract newcomers to this wonderful community.”
Progress in Affordable Housing
Adams said more housing had been built in three years and seven months than in 12 years of the Bloomberg and eight years of de Blasio administrations combined. “New Yorkers deserve a home, and here in Coney Island, we’re making that happen,” Adams added. “We’re surrounded by these beautiful projects that are here and affordable, affordable.” Acting Commissioner Ahmed Tigani, Department of Housing Preservation and Development, called this an “inspiring vision” that also is receiving $200 million in public subsidies. Jeffries cited low-income housing tax credits and “other federal investments” as playing a “critical role in ensuring that the funding is necessary to bring projects like this to life.”
Additional Features of the New Building
The latest building will include 11,000 square feet of commercial space and 10,000 square feet of community space.
Conclusion
The groundbreaking of the third and final phase of the affordable housing development in Coney Island marks a significant milestone in the area’s revitalization. With the addition of 420 affordable housing units, the project aims to provide a safe and affordable space for low- and middle-income residents. The development is a result of the collaboration between the city administration, developers, and the community, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and residents.
FAQs
Q: How many affordable housing units will the new building include?
A: The new building will include 420 affordable housing units.
Q: What is the location of the new building?
A: The new building is located at 1709 Surf Ave. in Coney Island.
Q: How many residents will the new building house?
A: The new building will house approximately 1,500 residents.
Q: What is the total amount of public subsidies received by the project?
A: The project is receiving $200 million in public subsidies.
Q: What is the expected impact of the development on the local community?
A: The development is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and residents, providing affordable housing options and contributing to the revitalization of Coney Island.
