Construction will begin on a new, 66-unit affordable senior housing development in Medford.
Medford Gardens is a $40 million fully electric complex that will dedicate half of its units to individuals who need supportive services. Construction is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026.
Apartments will be available for households aged 55 and older who earn up to 60 percent of the Area Median Income. Thirty-three supportive apartments will be reserved for eligible seniors struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges. The project was developed by WellLife Network, which will also offer on-site support for eligible residents, such as health services, case management, crisis intervention, and vocational training.
The new three-story building will also have sustainable additions such as:
- electric heating and cooling
- energy-efficient appliances
- laundry facilities
- electric vehicle charging stations
- storm drainage retention ponds
- outdoor greenspace
Medford Gardens is supported by New York State Homes and Community Renewal’s Federal and State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Programs, which are expecting to make:
- $19 million in equity
- $6.7 million from its Supportive Housing Opportunity Program
- $3.6 million from its Federal Housing Trust Fund
- $800,000 from its NYS Home Program
- $7.9 million from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program
Over the past five years, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has funded almost 5,500 affordable homes on Long Island. The Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative is giving operational funding for the 33 supportive units through the New York State Office of Mental Health.
“Creating affordable, energy efficient, and supportive homes is the cornerstone of HCR’s work,” said New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnee Visnauskas. “This $40 million investment will allow 66 senior households the opportunity to live independently in a place they can afford.”
“We are committed to creating more opportunities for older New Yorkers to downsize into smaller homes in communities they love,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Medford Gardens will provide households with an affordable place to call home and provide vulnerable residents the support they need and deserve to continue to live independently. Thank you to the town of Brookhaven for your partnership and for showing what it means to be a Pro-Housing Community.”
Local elected officials were glad to see this project come to Long Island.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said, “Smart affordable housing projects are essential to keeping people right here on Long Island,” Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said. “This initiative helps propel that goal, and we look forward to working with New York State and our local leaders to provide more housing opportunities for those who want to call Long Island home.”
“Combating housing insecurity for seniors, including those seniors with disabilities, takes action by local governments working with partners in the industry,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico. “Unfortunately, there are many such seniors who have served our nation in the armed services, but face homelessness. The Town of Brookhaven is actively working to reduce homelessness for our residents, especially for our veterans.”
State Senator Dean Murray (R-Patchogue) added, “They say we are judged by how we treat those in need. I’m proud to work with Governor Hochul, the folks at NYS Homes and Community Renewal and our friends at WellLife Network to provide an affordable, multi-family development that also provides supportive services to those in need.”
“Medford Gardens is a welcome addition to our community and we look forward to its new residents,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford). “This affordable, supportive housing will transform their lives.”