Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced the initial phase of a $47.4 million project to upgrade affordable senior housing in Amsterdam is completed. Santabarbara helped secure funds for these critical renovations that improve energy efficiency and safety for 191 senior living units in the city.

“Preserving and growing our region’s affordable housing is a top priority, especially for seniors who want to stay in the communities they helped build,” Santabarbara said. “This project will help ensure seniors can live in modern, safe housing and stay near family and friends. The next phase of this project will further strengthen affordable housing in Amsterdam, which is crucial to keep aging residents in the community they call home. I’ll continue working to strengthen the affordable housing stock and support these vital investments.”

Stratton Apartments in Amsterdam were fully renovated during the project’s first phase, including asbestos abatement, new windows and doors and installation of energy-efficient hot water boilers and LED light fixtures. Energy Star-rated appliances and fixtures were also installed in the kitchens and bathrooms of every apartment. Safety improvements at the seven-story building included replacing wiring, thermostats and baseboards and fire alarm systems, and upgrading elevators and other accessibility enhancements. The apartment complex at 95 Division St. provides 75 apartments for households with incomes at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and at least one household member aged 62 or older.

The project’s second phase will upgrade the 116-unit New Amsterdam Apartments at 26 Wall St. State financing for the two-phase development includes $9.3 million in tax-exempt bonds, $15.6 million subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (NYS HCR) and federal low-income housing tax credits. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is also providing $136,500 in support.