1st Ward Councilman Mike DeFusco and Councilwoman-at-Large Vanessa Falco have announced some upcoming affordable housing plans for Hoboken, which will begin with a community meeting about the construction of a new complex for low-income residents.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“As a lifelong resident of Hoboken, I’ve witnessed first hand the cost of living skyrocket in Hoboken over the past two decades, forcing countless families to make the difficult decision to move out of their hometown,” Falco, the council vice president and the chair of the Affordable Housing Subcommittee, said in a joint statement.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the affordability crisis our city faces and by working collaboratively with the mayor, the city council will ensure anyone who calls Hoboken home can continue to do so, regardless of their economic class.”
A virtual community meeting organized by Falco will be held tomorrow evening to discuss a proposal to build a five-story building at the corner of Willow Avenue and 11th Street.
The structure would potentially be designated entirely as affordable housing for low and moderate income individuals over the age of 55.
The Zoom call will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday and will stream live on Facebook and YouTube.
Anyone wishing to attend can do so by entering meeting ID: 827 4083 9295 and passcode: 237450 or by phone call: 646-876-9923.
Additionally, Falco and DeFusco say they are working closely to update the city’s zoning code to incentivize more affordable housing citywide.
Local legislation that will be ready for a council vote in early 2021 follows recommendations from Hoboken’s 2018 Master Plan.
“Hoboken’s greatest strength is in its diversity of residents and unfortunately, dated zoning laws have long prevented us from creating additional affordable housing options and opportunities for new small businesses,” DeFusco, the chair of the Zoning Subcommittee, added.
“This is a city for everyone, not just the wealthy, and by revising dated zoning laws to work better for all residents, Hoboken can build its middle class and entice makers, creators and innovators to bring their talents into our community.”