Mrs. Cynthia Burl enjoys a visit from her granddaughter Ciara at the affordable rental apartment on the Upper West Side where she moved four months ago after living in a shelter for more than a year.
“It’s great to have a home when you come from a shelter. I’m treated with respect here, it’s nice to have my own space where my kids and grandkids can come visit and have fun with me,” Burl said.
At 65, Burl says he applied to the city’s Housing Preservation and Development Department’s (HPD) Senior Affordable Rental program, SARA, in May 2022.
In March of this year, he was the first beneficiary person to move into the Park 79 building.
“I couldn’t ask for a better place to live at 65, I feel safe here,” added Burl.
The Park 79 building was operated as an illegal hotel. Through city efforts, its 77 apartments have been converted into affordable housing for low-income 65 and older including those who have lived in shelters. All units have been assigned.
Cynthia Burl enjoys a visit from her granddaughter Ciara.
“For me he is a model for all of New York. Hundreds of buildings like this are needed, but at least today there is good news for 79th Street,” said Mark Levine, Manhattan Borough President.
“Delighted to introduce Park 79 on the Upper West Side, a new home for 77 senior households. This is not just a building, it’s a promise. Our office is dedicated to increasing affordable housing in Manhattan by addressing the pressing need for inclusion and affordability,” Levine further wrote in a social media post.
Thrilled to unveil Park 79 on the Upper West Side – a new home for 77 senior households. This isn’t just a building, it’s a pledge. Our office is dedicated to increasing affordable housing across Manhattan, addressing the pressing need for inclusivity and affordability. pic.twitter.com/8jP1AyKMO7
— Manhattan Borough President Mark D. Levine (@MBPMarkLevine) July 20, 2023
News that makes Ciara Spencer very happy that she now has a place to visit her grandmother.
I am glad that my grandmother is in a welcoming home.
2023-07-21 19:03:00
#Hotel #converted #affordable #housing #building #seniors
