New York state’s Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) announced the results of a Statewide Affordable Housing Needs Study. The report was the result of an outreach to gather first-hand information from local leaders and housing professionals who best understand the housing and community development needs of their own communities. The study started in late 2007 and included 42 focus group meetings throughout the State which were attended by nearly 500 participants, including local and county government officials, affordable housing developers, community development organizations and social service agencies. The final report is a compilation of nine regional housing studies as the state has wide ranging needs and issues in different parts of the state. The report addressed senior housing issues and needs in the state such as:
- Seniors make up an increasing proportion of the State’s population, bringing to light specific affordable housing issues such as the need for supportive services and accessible and visitable housing that is affordable to seniors with fixed incomes.
- Many existing affordable senior housing developments are overwhelmed with long wait lists.
- Senior homeowners face barriers to aging in place, including rising property taxes and the costs of maintenance and accessibility modifications.
- Funding is needed to create senior rental housing with supportive services that are sited close to support systems and public transportation. To meet the needs of senior homeowners, additional funding for home repairs and accessibility modifications is needed.
Governor David A. Paterson said "this Study represents a significant step forward in the way DHCR develops its policies and implements its programs around the State. By interviewing hundreds of local experts on their specific needs, DHCR will be able to better tailor its resources and better serve the people of New York State."
For the full report, click here.
