Demolition of the Commodore Perry Homes in Buffalo’s First Ward neighborhood is set to begin Monday, April 15, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday.

Plans call for the site to be redeveloped into a 27-building, all-electric housing development with 405 affordable homes. Building amenities are set to include fitness centers, free WiFi, a property management office and on-site laundry. Parking will be provided for tenants and staff.

"Today, we are taking the first steps towards a better and brighter future at the Perry Homes with the demolition of this blighted eyesore," Gov. Hochul said. "Working with Mayor Brown and the City of Buffalo, we are seizing the momentum of progress felt all around this City and transforming the Commodore Perry Homes into a vibrant community that will provide a safe, stable and affordable place to live for residents and families."

Once demolition is complete, buildings will be replaced with 27 buildings that include three mid-rise, mixed-use buildings with 8,000 square feet of commercial space, and 24 two- and three-story townhouse-style apartment buildings.

"It is wonderful to see this demolition project moving forward. I am proud of my administration's work with the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (BMHA) to remove this blight," Mayor Byron Brown said. "The construction of the new Commodore Perry Homes is just one of several affordable and market rate housing initiatives that have been completed or are currently underway in the city of Buffalo. All of this progress is the direct result of my overall strategic plan to improve our housing stock and the quality of life of our residents."

Funding for the project is part of Gov. Hochul's $25 billion comprehensive housing plan.