Looking to help solve New York’s affordable housing crunch, Gov. Kathy Hochul has earmarked $85 million for the creation and enhancement of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) across the state. The allocation is part of a five-year plan aimed at bolstering affordable housing options and revitalizing communities.
Dubbed the “Plus One ADU Program,” the initiative will offer grants to local governments and non-profit organizations dedicated to tailoring community-specific programs for safe and quality ADUs, according to the governor. “The program endeavors to provide full-service support to low and middle-income single-family homeowners interested in either constructing a new ADU on their property or upgrading existing units to comply with local and state code requirements,” Hochul explained.
ADUs, which can range from standalone units to basement apartments or garage conversions, present an opportunity to expand housing options while promoting inclusivity and affordability in New York’s diverse neighborhoods, the governor explained further.
Locally, Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico announced during his inaugural address that he plans to eliminate the town’s Accessory Apartment Review Board to make it easier for homeowners to create rentals in their homes. Permits will be issued administratively through the building department rather than a review board under Panico’s plan.
Partnerships between non-profit housing organizations and municipal or county governments are eligible to apply for funding under the Plus One Program. Project activities encompass a range of pre-development, construction oversight, and post-construction monitoring tasks. Awardees will identify low and moderate-income homeowners interested in adding or improving ADUs, oversee the pre-development process, including design and permitting, and ensure compliance with construction standards and utilization of minority and women-owned businesses. Post-construction, awardees will monitor compliance for a period of at least ten years, ensuring that ADUs serve as permanent housing and meet quality standards, according to the rules set forth by the state.
Interested homeowners can apply through Local Program Administrators to determine eligibility. In Brookhaven and a number of other Suffolk towns, the Long Island Housing Partnership is administering the Plus One ADU effort. The LIHP staff is available to assist with the application process and answer questions about eligibility requirements. They can be reached at (631)435-4710.
“As New York State embarks on this ambitious endeavor, the Plus One ADU Program stands as a testament to the commitment towards building inclusive, resilient communities and addressing the evolving housing needs of its residents,” Gov. Hochul concluded.