NY State Property to Support Civic Organizations and Affordable Housing

NEW YORK CITY— Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed into law S.4688-A/A.6865-A, which immediately transfers state-owned lands and property in New York City to Empire State Development for less than fair market value. The move will allow the property to be used for the National Urban League Headquarters and Conference Center and the Urban Civil Rights Experience Museum.

The $270 million project also will add 170 units to the city’s affordable housing stock. This is part of the governor’s $20 billion plan to combat homelessness and create affordable housing. Last week Gov. Cuomo had urged the MTA to address homelessness on the subways as part of its reorganization plan due at the end of the month.

The land transfer will provide below-market and rent-free space for local non-for-profits, including One Hundred Black Men, Inc. and Jazzmobile, Inc.

“Harlem has a rich history and culture that should be celebrated, protected and enhanced for future generations,” says Gov. Cuomo. “By signing this measure into law, we will help preserve Harlem’s history, create more affordable housing and provide a home for not-for-profit and civic organizations.” He praised organizations like the National Urban League and 100 Black Men for doing important work for communities of color across the state.

The property to be transferred to the Urban Development Corporation is located at 121 W. 125th St. The land runs from the northern side of W. 125th St., and the western side of Lenox Ave. to the southern side of W. 126th St.