Governor Kathy Hochul announced on April 28 the completion of The Frederick Shack Residence, a new affordable and supportive housing development in the Crotona Park East neighborhood of the Bronx. The project consists of 79 units and is part of Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York State.
The Frederick Shack Residence aims to address housing needs for vulnerable populations by providing modern apartments with on-site support services. Governor Hochul said, “The Frederick Shack Residence represents exactly the kind of investment we need to make so that New Yorkers have an affordable place to call home, and access to the services they need to be successful.”
Developed by Urban Pathways, the residence was built on the site of a former single-room occupancy facility that was demolished in early 2024. Former tenants were relocated between 2022 and 2023. The new seven-story building offers fully accessible apartments, including eight units for residents with mobility impairments and four for those with sensory disabilities. Fifty-five apartments are reserved for individuals eligible for support services funded through an Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative award from the State Office of Mental Health.
State financing included approximately $22 million generated through Low Income Housing Tax Credit programs administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), as well as $10 million from the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program. RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner at HCR, said, “Supportive housing is essential to addressing homelessness and ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to safe, affordable homes with the services they need to thrive.”
Other officials also recognized the importance of this development. Barbara C. Guinn from OTDA said it provides “a safe, affordable place to live with easy access to supportive services provided on site by Urban Pathways.” Dr. Ann Sullivan from OMH added that “attaining safe, stable housing is critical for better mental health and wellness.” Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson highlighted how stability starts with “a safe place to live and access to nearby services,” while State Senator Luis Sepulveda described it as “a transformative investment” supporting underserved communities.
Urban Pathways CEO Gary P. Jenkins called The Frederick Shack Residence “a powerful reflection of what can be achieved through visionary leadership,” emphasizing its role in offering stability and dignity.
The project supports broader efforts under Governor Hochul’s administration aimed at increasing housing supply statewide through new programs such as Pro-Housing Community Program certification for localities seeking state funding incentives. More than 81,000 affordable homes have been created or preserved under these initiatives so far.
