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Syracuse Seeks State Funds to Build 50 Houses to Fill Gaps in Neighborhoods

Aerial shot of Elmwood neighborhood in Syracuse, NY
Greater Syracuse Land Bank

The City of Syracuse is forging ahead on one of mayor Ben Walsh’s State of the City initiatives to build 50 single family homes to fill gaps left by vacant and abandoned properties in the city. Common councilors have approved a $2 million state application for an Infill Housing Program, which the city will match with $1.75 million in federal housing funds. 

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens says it’s a different approach to the city’s housing problems. 

"There are times where we need to be very flexible on what we need to do. We have a vision for infill that we want to be able to take the lead on for one time in the history of when we've been allocating these dollars."

Councilor Pat Hogan, who previously served on the council from 2006 to 2013, says it's long overdue.

"This is the first time in my history here that we've actually had a strategic vision for exactly where we're going to put the houses. I can't tell you how many time I was mystified about the housing projects that came up and who was getting the money."

Home Headquarters will be one of many non-profit housing partners involved in the effort.  Executive Director Kerry Quaglia says new housing brings many advantages over renovating existing homes.

"There's no lead, therre's no asbestos, there's no radon. Plus, they're energy efficient. You happen to take a look at the 700 block of Otisco [Ave.], we're building a two-family home there and we're doing it with SIPS panels, structurally insulated panels, which already have the foam installed."

Quaglia says building new costs about the same as an extensive renovation of an older home requiring lead abatement, plus new windows, siding, heating and cooling, electrical, and plumbing.