BINGHAMTON, NY (WSKG) - A $7.7 million housing project is coming to the north side of the Binghamton.
Four vacant properties will turn into 27 units of affordable housing for homeless individuals and families. They're located at 39-49 Munsell St., 22 Moffatt Ave., 22 Way St. and 4 Sturges St.
"It's another win for the city as a whole, but specifically on the north side," said Binghamton Mayor Rich David. "But, even more importantly, it's going to provide 27 more units of safe, quality and affordable housing."
What's considered affordable and who's considered homeless has been a point of contention with projects like this across New York and across the country.
Mark Silvanic is the C.E.O for Opportunities for Broome/Chenango and will help work with people who will move into the housing. He said people who to meet the current homeless standard from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can qualify.
That standard includes having no place to stay over a period of time. But, Silvanic added, the standards can change from presidential administration to presidential administration.
“So, a couple years ago, if you were sleeping on a couch at your buddy’s house, you were considered homeless," Silvanic said. "That’s no longer considered homeless.”
Still, Silvanic said a goal of his group is to offer services for as many homeless people as possible, often that includes those with addiction and mental health problems. "Our case members will help people get some holistic, wrap-around services and address all concerns," Silvanic added.
Construction is set to begin next spring with the whole project complete in two years.
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is giving about $7.5 million in funding. The City Of Binghamton is contributing $100,000.