The Essential Housing Program is a CRA partnership that provides access to land and funding for new construction of affordable housing in the Uptown and Binghampton neighborhoods. Developers must produce well-designed, quality construction, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable housing units. Essential housing is accessible to a range of income levels, from low- to middle-income households. The program offers a variety of housing types, including single-family and multifamily units, as well as homeownership and rental opportunities.

The CRA recognizes each emerging developer as they begin construction. We highlight the developer and their partners at an open house called the Essential Housing Taking Shape. This event offers the public an opportunity to meet the developer, network with industry professionals, and gather updates on the Program. Everyone is welcome.