The Olympic Avenue Apartments — 46 new affordable housing units at East Buffalo's former Public School 78 — are now available, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday.
All of the homes will be available to low-income households, with eight of the units set aside for disabled individuals who will have access to on-site support services.
"This project exemplifies New York’s creativity in transforming underutilized properties into much-needed homes," Gov. Hochul said. "Our ongoing investments in East Buffalo are improving affordability, strengthening our communities and increasing housing opportunities for all."
The project features energy-efficient upgrades such as a green roof, new electrical systems, fuel-efficient heating and cooling, an updated stormwater system, and new windows. The site also features new sidewalks, lighting, a playground and a community garden. The development will also provide free internet.
"Affordable housing is a critical need in Erie County and the completion of the Olympic Avenue Apartments is great news, adding much-needed living spaces for low-income households and individuals with disabilities. The reuse of the former Public School 78 for this project transformed that disused building into modern, energy-efficient apartments with an improved streetscape that adds to the neighborhood quality of life as well," Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said.
The project first broke ground in 2022.