Construction has begun on a major affordable and supportive housing development in Schenectady, bringing 54 new apartments to the city's historic Stockade District.

According to NEWS10 ABC, the project — known as Harbor House at the YWCA — broke ground Wednesday (February 25) at 44 Washington Avenue. The development will rehabilitate the existing YWCA NorthEastern New York (YWCA NENY) building, which dates to 1930 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, while also adding a new, all-electric building next door.

The project will preserve 42 existing homes and add 54 new apartments — 50 studio units and four two-bedroom units. According to YWCA NENY, the development is designed specifically to serve women, including trans-inclusive housing, and small families — with a focus on survivors of domestic violence. All units will be affordable to households earning up to 50% of the Area Median Income.

On-site support services will include case management, housing stabilization, wellness programming, and connections to jobs and community resources. The building's modernization will include electric heating and cooling systems, enhanced insulation, and a new elevator. All units will remain single occupancy, with access to shared community kitchens, dining areas, and lounge spaces.

The $50.6 million project is funded through a combination of public sources, including New York State Homes and Community Renewal's Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit program, the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Additional funding comes from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars from both Schenectady County and the city of Schenectady. CBS6 Albany reports that Governor Kathy Hochul contributed $24 million to the project, and has pledged an additional $68 million to help families statewide as part of a broader housing push.

The project comes as housing affordability continues to be a pressing concern across New York. A new Marist poll cited by CBS6 Albany found that housing affordability is the top issue facing New Yorkers, ranking ahead of health care and the quality of public schools.

Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy spoke at the groundbreaking and called the project a model for collaboration. "Harbor House represents the very best of what we can accomplish when every level of government and our community partners work together," the mayor said. "This transformative investment builds on the mission of the YWCA and strengthens the support services so many residents rely on. Harbor House will preserve an important historic asset, create high-quality new housing and provide a safe, stable environment for individuals and families in need."

YWCA NENY is asking community members to avoid entering the main campus at 44 Washington Avenue or using its parking lot during construction. All services are currently available at the neighboring building at 40 Washington Avenue. Construction is expected to be completed within two years.

Elvis Duran