Construction Commences on $40M Senior Affordable Housing Development in White Plains

Construction has officially begun on Mt. Hope Plaza, a $40 million affordable housing project tailored for seniors at 65 Lake St. in White Plains. After more than five years in the planning stages, the project has transitioned from vision to reality, with shovels hitting the ground on April 12th in a joint announcement featuring Governor Kathy Hochul, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, State Sen. Shelley Mayer, and Assemblyman Chris Burdick.

Rendering Courtesy of Mt. Hope Plaza

Mt. Hope Plaza is poised to address the critical need for affordable housing for seniors, offering 56 apartments designed for adults aged 62 and older earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income. Notably, the development includes 20 units dedicated to homeless seniors, who will also have access to support services through an Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative award managed by the New York State Office of Mental Health, with Community Housing Innovations, Inc. serving as the supportive service provider.

Situated adjacent to the Mt. Hope A.M.E Zion Church on Lake St., the six-story apartment building is rising on a parcel of land that was acquired by Westchester County. The County Board of Legislators unanimously approved the county's acquisition of the 0.75-acre site for $2.1 million, subsequently transferring it to the Mount Hope Community Development Corporation with the stipulation that the housing remain affordable for at least 50 years.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of such initiatives in addressing the housing crisis, particularly in ensuring that seniors can maintain their independence and reside in the communities of their choice. She highlighted the collaboration between governmental entities and faith-based groups as instrumental in expanding access to safe and secure housing, underscoring the commitment to supporting New Yorkers' well-being and quality of life.

With construction now underway, Mt. Hope Plaza represents not only the realization of a long-awaited development but also a beacon of hope for seniors seeking affordable, supportive housing in White Plains. As the project progresses, it stands as a testament to the power of partnership, perseverance, and community-driven solutions in addressing the housing needs of vulnerable populations.