A historic elementary school in Schenectady, New York, has been converted into a $23 million affordable and supportive housing complex for seniors. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the completion of Elmer Gardens, which provides 51 all-electric apartments for residents aged 55 and older, including those experiencing homelessness. The redevelopment preserves the character of the original Elmer Avenue Elementary School while offering modern amenities and on-site support services.
Governor Hochul said, “Projects like Elmer Gardens demonstrate how we can simultaneously honor our history and open doors to affordable, high-quality housing in our communities. By converting a historic community asset into modern, energy-efficient homes, we are growing our housing supply while transforming quiet corridors into a vibrant place that gives seniors a supportive environment where they can connect and live independently. Elmer Gardens reflects my administration’s commitment to strengthening communities across the Capital Region and throughout the state.”
The project was developed by Home Leasing, LLC and Better Community Neighborhoods, Inc., maintaining features from the school built in 1905 with updates that meet historic rehabilitation standards. The building includes restored windows, preserved auditorium space for community gatherings, and new accessibility features such as an elevator.
Elmer Gardens is part of broader efforts to increase affordable housing options in Schenectady County. More than 800 affordable homes have been created or preserved locally under Governor Hochul’s leadership, with over 600 located within the city itself. The project aligns with New York’s ongoing $25 billion five-year Housing Plan aimed at creating or preserving 100,000 affordable homes statewide.
All apartments at Elmer Gardens are designated for households earning up to 60 percent of the area median income. Half of the units provide on-site support services through partnerships with local organizations such as the Schenectady Community Action Program.
State funding played a key role in financing this development through tax credits and grants from several agencies including New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), Department of Health, City of Schenectady, Schenectady County, and other partners.
New York State Housing Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas stated: “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is prioritizing developments that combine sustainability, supportive services, and community revitalization. Elmer Gardens exemplifies how strategic State investments can preserve historic buildings and deliver affordable, energy-efficient housing that meets the needs of our communities. This $23 million project will allow seniors to enjoy the stability and support they deserve in Schenectady.”
The site offers access to public transportation as well as nearby shops, pharmacies, schools, senior centers, libraries and other community resources.
Additional officials praised the initiative for its impact on both neighborhood revitalization and resident well-being:
New York State Office of Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said: “Schools…are anchor points in communities across New York. Reactivating these vacant spaces as affordable…residential communities for seniors is a fitting next chapter…We value the opportunity to be part of this work when projects utilize…historic rehabilitation tax credit programs…”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said: “Housing and health go hand in hand. By providing supportive…homes for seniors…we ensure residents can live safely…[and] independently…. I thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering commitment to building healthier communities across New York.”
New York State Office for Aging Acting Director Greg Olsen added: “Governor Hochul’s affordability agenda continues to deliver for older adults across New York who state that affordable…housing are among their top priorities…. Its proximity to local services…[makes] it possible for older residents to remain independent by having access to all…important hallmarks of a truly interconnected…community.”
NYSERDA President Doreen Harris commented: “This all-electric affordable housing development highlights how smart design…[can] deliver energy savings…[and] healthier living spaces…. Projects like Elmer Gardens are critical to ensuring [the] clean energy transition delivers tangible benefits….”
Federal officials also noted their involvement through tax credits supporting more than half of total funding:
Senator Chuck Schumer said: “Every senior in the Capital Region deserves a safe…[home]. I’m proud that [federal] Low-Income Housing Tax Credit…[and] other federal programs have delivered more than $13 million…” He commended efforts by Governor Hochul toward increasing access across New York.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said: “Our seniors deserve access to safe,…affordable homes where they can age with dignity…. I look forward to [the positive change] this project will bring…, [and will keep fighting] for federal funding….”
Representative Paul Tonko added: “I’m thrilled…[by completion]. This 51-unit senior housing development will be an outstanding addition…” He emphasized its role as an example of revitalizing infrastructure while expanding needed support services.
Local leaders echoed appreciation:
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara stated: “Elmer Gardens is [an investment that matters]. By turning a former neighborhood school into safe,…affordable housing…, this project strengthens…[our area].”
Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy thanked state officials for supporting quality affordable housing initiatives benefiting local seniors while preserving historic sites.
Home Leasing CEO Megan Houppert remarked on their continued commitment alongside BCNI; BCNI CEO Matthew Nelson highlighted collaboration among stakeholders; CPC Vice President Miriam Zinter called it an example of impact-driven reinvestment meeting real community needs.
Governor Hochul’s overall agenda focuses on making New York more livable through expanded investment in new construction programs targeting both renters’ needs and homebuyers’ opportunities statewide—efforts currently involving more than 400 pro-housing certified communities throughout New York.