Local leaders met with New York State Governor Kathy Hochul this week to discuss the New York Housing Compact, a strategy in the upcoming state budget to address New York’s housing crisis and build 800,000 new homes over the next decade.
Advocates, elected representatives, and business leaders voiced their support for the plan, which builds on the Governor’s vision to make New York more livable, more accessible, and more affordable.
City of Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey was among those in attendance.
“Thanks Governor Hochul for this historic housing initiative,” Harvey exclaimed. “Cities like Newburgh need workforce housing to attract and retain a new generation of families and build on important workforce development strategies. I look forward to working with the Governor to continue the progress.”
Hudson River Housing Executive Director Christa Hines, who also attended, added, “Lack of affordable, workforce housing in the Hudson Valley and across the state has grown to a crisis level. Hudson River Housing applauds Governor Kathy Hochul’s plan to add 800,000 new homes over the next decade! These homes will be vital for our families to continue to live, work, and play in the region.”
Mike Oates, President and CEO, Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation said, “The need for more housing is a critical issue facing the Hudson Valley and NYS. HVEDC applauds Governor Hochul for taking a leadership role in identifying solutions and driving the conversation forward. We stand ready to assist developers and communities who want to build more housing.”
Adam Bosch, CEO of Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress said, “Our leaders must encourage the construction of more housing for people at every income level if we hope to maintain community wellness and economic prosperity in the Hudson Valley. Gov. Hochul has correctly diagnosed the problem: The housing crisis across our region has pushed prices beyond what people can afford, exacerbated our workforce shortage, and compelled more than 100,000 people to move out of the region. Leaders at every level must collaborate on evidence-based solutions to speed up the funding, review and development of housing that meets our local and regional needs. At this moment, the health of our economy depends less on attracting new companies than our willingness to build sufficient housing for our workers, neighbors and children.”
