The completion of West Side Homes, a $23 million affordable and supportive housing development in Buffalo, was announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. The project, developed by Buffalo Neighborhood Stabilization Company, Inc. (BNSC), the housing arm of PUSH Buffalo, features 49 affordable apartments across 11 new buildings constructed on previously vacant lots. Sixteen of these units are reserved for individuals experiencing homelessness and will include access to supportive services.
This initiative is part of a broader effort led by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), which has financed over 11,000 affordable homes in Erie County, with more than 8,000 located in Buffalo. The West Side Homes project aligns with Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year housing plan aimed at creating or preserving 100,000 affordable homes throughout New York State.
Governor Hochul stated: “Every New Yorker deserves a safe, affordable place to call home, and West Side Homes is a testament to our unwavering commitment to making that a reality in Buffalo. This $23 million development was constructed with direct input from residents and contributes to the continued revitalization on the city’s West Side. Today’s announcement demonstrates how my administration is creating pathways to prosperity for families as part of our historic $25 billion housing plan.”
The selection of sites for West Side Homes followed a community-led planning process initiated in 2017 by BNSC. All apartments are designated for households earning at or below 50 percent of the Area Median Income.
Residents in the sixteen supportive units will have access to on-site services funded through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative and administered by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). BestSelf Behavioral Health serves as the service provider.
The largest building within the development—a 15-unit all-electric facility at 625 West Avenue—has received certifications from Passive House Institute US and other green building standards. It also benefited from support provided through programs run by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Other energy-efficient features include ground source heat pumps, energy recovery ventilation systems, and rooftop solar arrays.
Amenities available to residents include laundry facilities, porches or balconies, community space, fully accessible apartments for people with mobility impairments, and accommodations for those with hearing or visual impairments.
Financing sources included Federal and State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits generating $12 million in equity; an additional $4.6 million subsidy from HCR; $3.6 million from the Homeless Housing and Assistance Program via the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance; NYSERDA awards totaling over $500,000; and $500,000 contributed by the City of Buffalo.
RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner/CEO of New York State Homes and Community Renewal said: “The completion of West Side Homes marks a significant advance, providing high-quality, affordable residences tailored to fit the priorities of West Side residents. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re not just constructing buildings — we’re promoting stability and creating opportunities for families to flourish. In Buffalo alone, we’ve financed over 8,000 affordable homes. By collaborating with our public and private partners, we’re expanding housing opportunities to ensure all New Yorkers have access to safe, sustainable homes.”
Dr. Chinazo Cunningham from OASAS added: “Every New Yorker deserves a safe and stable home. This new supportive housing development in Buffalo is more than just a building; it is a critical investment in people. By providing not only affordable housing but also on-site treatment and services, we are creating an opportunity for individuals and families to reclaim their lives and build bright futures.”
Barbara C. Guinn from OTDA commented: “The Homeless Housing and Assistance Program’s investment in West Side Homes on Buffalo’s West Side provides individuals who have experienced homelessness with safe modern homes and direct access to essential services they need to build and maintain successful lives in their community. We are grateful to PUSH Buffalo and all our state and local partners on this important community project and to Governor Hochul for her steadfast commitment to expanding supportive housing options across New York State.”
Doreen M. Harris from NYSERDA said: “New York’s commitment to creating a modern built environment will improve the quality of life for residents while helping us move toward a clean energy economy. The completion of the West Side Homes in Buffalo demonstrates how the adoption of all-electric building solutions and energy efficient features can benefit our diverse neighborhoods including New York’s most underserved populations.”
Senator Charles Schumer noted: “Every family in Buffalo deserves a safe an affordable place to call home… I applaud Governor Hochul’s work increasing access to housing for working families in Buffalo…”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated: “Supporting our most vulnerable community members is one of my top priorities… I am proud of the federal funding that made this project possible…”
Representative Tim Kennedy said: “All families no matter their income deserve access to safe affordable quality housing… this project serves as a model…”
State Senator April Baskin remarked: “I grew up on the West Side … Thanks to Buffalo Neighborhood Stabilization Company’s $23 million investment …”
Assemblymember Jon D Rivera said: “West Side Homes is a powerful example … combining affordability with supportive services … strengthens Buffalo’s housing stock…”
Buffalo Mayor Christopher P Scanlon commented: “The West Side Homes project demonstrates what can be achieved when community partners … work together…”
PUSH Buffalo Executive Director Dawn Wells-Clyburn added: “I can think of no better way … than cutting ribbon on West Side Homes … These 49 beautiful units are designed [to address] those who have been historically marginalized …”
Governor Hochul has prioritized addressing statewide housing challenges through legislative measures such as new tax incentives capital funding protections for renters/homeowners inclusionary policies like voucher pilot programs and ongoing multi-billion dollar investments. Over 65 thousand homes have already been created or preserved under these initiatives so far.
