The city has launched the affordable housing lottery for the newest phase of the Hunters Point South development on the Long Island City waterfront.
TF Cornerstone announced that applications are being accepted on the NYC Housing Connect website for the first 185 of a total of 719 affordable units in its two-tower complex that is rising at 52-41 Center Blvd.
“For generations, TF Cornerstone has been a leading driver of economic development housing, public parks, schools and philanthropy in Long Island City, and we are thrilled to be continuing that at Hunters Park South,” TF Cornerstone Principal and Vice President Zoe Elghanayan said. “As the first of few new buildings to commence leasing in the wake of a global pandemic, 5241 and 5203 Center Blvd. are much-needed sanctuaries, providing new affordable housing, vast amounts of open space, light and air in all directions, dedicated community spaces, and the security of being a part of a TF Cornerstone community.”
The Hunters Point South development will bring 1,194 new residential units in its two towers, with a mix of studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Sixty percent of the units will be permanently affordable to low-, moderate- and middle-income residents, with 100 apartments set aside for low-income seniors. Half of the affordable units are set aside for the local community within Community Board 2.
“This amenity-packed project that’s opening in Long Island City will be an incredible asset to this vibrant neighborhood,” Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Louise Carroll said. “With a coworking space, a fitness center and plentiful outdoor space included, not only are many low-income families and seniors getting a high-quality, affordable place to call home, but families are receiving accommodations that will contribute to their health and well-being for years to come.”
Leasing for the remaining 209 market-rate units is expected to begin toward the end of the year. Leasing for the 534 affordable and 266 market-rate units in the North Tower, located at 52-03 Center Blvd. is expected to commence next summer.
“Hunters Point South is providing New Yorkers from a diverse range of incomes with safe and secure affordable housing in an amenity-rich, waterfront development,” Housing Development Corporation President Eric Enderlin said. “This lottery will provide 185 individuals and families greater housing and economic security at a time it is needed most. I encourage those who are eligible to visit the new and improved NYC Housing Connect to apply today.”
In 2014, when a lottery was held for the 925 affordable apartments that were part of phase one at the development, more than 93,000 people applied. Residents will have access to amenities in both towers including outdoor spaces, barbecue grills, club room, a lounge, a children’s playroom, a fitness center, a yoga room, laundry facilities and HomeWork, TF Cornerstone’s signature resident-exclusive coworking space, and access to Hunters Point South Park and its NYC Ferry landing.
“This project was unique for us thanks to the collaboration with the city and TF Cornerstone. The private-public partnership allowed us to create a more holistic vision for this new neighborhood, one that is reflective of the types of communities ODA is trying to build,” said architect ODA Founder Eran Chen, who led the design process. “The opportunity to combine affordable housing with market-rate and senior housing, surrounded by a curated amenity package, with retail shops and a direct connection to the park is a winning formula we hope to emulate in future projects.”
