Construction has begun on The Morgan, a new supportive housing development in Jamaica, Queens. The $32.5 million project will create 50 affordable housing units, with 30 specifically designated for individuals living with serious mental illness.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of construction, emphasizing the importance of providing stable and supportive homes for vulnerable populations. “We are fully committed to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to affordable housing, including the most vulnerable among us,” Governor Hochul said. “The Morgan will offer much-needed support and dignified housing for individuals living with serious mental illness, providing them with services so they may remain safely and stably housed in the Jamaica area of Queens.”
Transitional Services for New York is leading the development of The Morgan. Of the total units, 30 will come with supportive services such as case management, skill development programs, conflict management assistance, harm reduction strategies, community integration efforts, and peer support. Twenty additional units will be available to those earning at or below half of the area median income.
Funding for The Morgan includes $12.4 million from the State Office of Mental Health (OMH), part of a broader $1 billion state investment in mental health initiatives and housing. Additional financial backing comes from Homes and Community Renewal’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program ($7 million), the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program ($4 million), and New York City’s Housing Preservation & Development Supportive Housing Loan Program ($7 million).
The new eight-story building will replace a vacant house and feature amenities such as a library/computer area, outdoor terrace, laundry room, recreation space, garden areas, energy-efficient design features, all-electric systems, active design elements for resident wellness, and free Wi-Fi.
New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan commented on the significance of stable housing: “By providing stable housing for New Yorkers living with serious mental illness, we can create an environment where they can live and thrive in their community. The Morgan will help individuals access supportive services and continue their journey toward recovery. This project represents Governor Hochul’s ongoing investments to strengthen mental health care and provide safe, affordable housing for all.”
Barbara C. Guinn from the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance added: “The permanent supportive housing units being created as part of this development will provide individuals not only with a safe, affordable place to live but with easy access to services to help them overcome barriers that may have contributed to them experiencing homelessness. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul and our State partners for their recognition that more than brick and mortar is needed to provide stable housing for some of our most vulnerable fellow New Yorkers.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas from Homes and Community Renewal stated: “Our $7 million investment is helping to provide 50 affordable, sustainable, and supportive homes that will help the Jamaica community thrive. We thank our partners for their dedication and look forward to seeing this project progress.”
Robert J. Rodriguez from Dormitory Authority noted DASNY’s role: “DASNY is honored to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to expand specialized housing for New Yorkers living with mental illness. Throughout financing assistance and construction oversight, we’re helping ensure The Morgan provides the stable, dignified housing that individuals need to thrive in their community.”
State Senator Leroy Comrie welcomed stability brought by projects like this: “Southeast Queens has been home to several transitional services facilities… By expanding housing paired with on-site services we are giving individuals a real path forward… I’m grateful to see this project advancing in Southeast Queens.”
Senator Jessica Ramos highlighted local needs: “In Queens we understand that supportive housing is a lifeline… When we talk about treating mental health we have to commit to the full picture.”
Senator Patricia Fahy said: “Investments in affordable housing … are needed now more than ever … ‘The Morgan’ will not only replace a vacant property; it will create a community…”
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara emphasized hope provided by such developments: “Projects like The Morgan are more than new buildings — they offer hope…”
Assemblymember Clyde Vanel thanked leadership supporting these initiatives: “Housing that is both affordable and accessible is essential … I want to thank Governor Hochul…”
OMH continues its expansion efforts across New York State through its mental health initiative by developing thousands more specialized residential units statewide.
