Construction has begun on The Morgan, a new supportive housing development in Jamaica, Queens. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of this $32.5 million project, which will provide 50 affordable housing units, including 30 specifically for individuals living with serious mental illness.
Governor Hochul said, “We are fully committed to ensuring all New Yorkers have access to affordable housing, including the most vulnerable among us. The Morgan will offer much-needed support and dignified housing for individuals living with serious mental illness, providing them with services so they may remain safely and stably housed in the Jamaica area of Queens.”
Transitional Services for New York is leading the development of The Morgan. The building will include 30 supportive units offering services such as case management, round-the-clock staff presence, skill development programs, conflict management and harm reduction initiatives, community integration activities, and peer support. An additional 20 units will be reserved for those earning at or below half of the area’s median income.
Funding sources for The Morgan include $12.4 million from the State Office of Mental Health (OMH), part of Governor Hochul’s larger $1 billion commitment to mental health and housing initiatives in New York State. Other contributions come from Homes and Community Renewal’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program ($7 million), the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program ($4 million), and New York City’s Housing Preservation & Development Supportive Housing Loan Program ($7 million). DASNY provided assistance at loan closing in anticipation of future long-term financing.
The project involves demolishing a vacant house to construct an eight-story building covering over 31,000 square feet. Planned amenities include a library/computer room, outdoor terrace, laundry facilities, recreation space, garden areas, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and energy-efficient design features.
New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan stated: “By providing stable housing for New Yorkers living with serious mental illness, we can create an environment where they can live and thrive in their community. The Morgan will help individuals access supportive services and continue their journey toward recovery. This project represents Governor Hochul’s ongoing investments to strengthen mental health care and provide safe, affordable housing for all.”
Barbara C. Guinn from the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance commented: “The permanent supportive housing units being created as part of this development will provide individuals not only with a safe, affordable place to live but with easy access to services to help them overcome barriers that may have contributed to them experiencing homelessness. We’re grateful to Governor Hochul and our State partners for their recognition that more than brick and mortar is needed to provide stable housing for some of our most vulnerable fellow New Yorkers.”
RuthAnne Visnauskas from Homes and Community Renewal said: “Our $7 million investment is helping to provide 50 affordable, sustainable, and supportive homes that will help the Jamaica community thrive. We thank our partners for their dedication and look forward to seeing this project progress.”
Dormitory Authority President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez added: “DASNY is honored to support Governor Hochul’s efforts to expand specialized housing for New Yorkers living with mental illness. Throughout financing assistance and construction oversight, we’re helping ensure The Morgan provides the stable dignified housing that individuals need to thrive in their community.”
State Senator Leroy Comrie noted: “Southeast Queens has been home to several transitional services facilities…This project helps address one of the biggest gaps in our mental health and housing systems…By expanding housing paired with on-site services we are giving individuals a real path forward…I’m grateful to see this project advancing in Southeast Queens.”
State Senator Jessica Ramos stated: “In Queens we understand that supportive housing is a lifeline…The Morgan continues that proud tradition…When we talk about treating mental health we have to commit to the full picture—that’s housing dignity—and holistic support that truly empowers people.”
State Senator Patricia Fahy remarked: “Investments in affordable housing…are needed now more than ever….‘The Morgan’ will not only replace a vacant property; it will create a community that allows New Yorkers living with mental illness access…Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued support…”
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara commented: “Supportive housing helps individuals living with mental illness build stability…By expanding access…we’re improving our mental health system…”
Assemblymember Clyde Vanel added: “Housing that is both affordable and accessible is essential…It is vital that we take care of all New Yorkers…Thank you Governor Hochul…”
OMH reports it has recently expanded specialized residential options by adding over 1,200 new units under Governor Hochul’s initiative statewide; another 2,224 units are currently being developed across various categories—including single-room occupancy residences as well as short-term transitional accommodations—aimed at helping those affected by serious mental illnesses live safely within their communities.
TSINY Chief Executive Officer Dr. Larry Grubler said: “We are proud to partner with New York State in establishing these additional units of supportive housing…The Morgan will continue our mission…We share Governor Hochul’s vision…”
