$273M Renovation To Overhaul 2 East Harlem Housing Projects

EAST HARLEM, NY — Nearly 800 residents at two East Harlem public housing developments will soon see long-awaited upgrades to their apartments and buildings thanks to a $272.6 million project finalized recently, officials said.

The New York City Housing Authority closed on financing on Sept. 25 for the overhaul, which will rehabilitate 523 apartments across apartments at Metro North Plaza and Gaylord White Houses.

The work is part of NYCHA’s Permanent Affordability Commitment Together program, which shifts buildings into the federal Section 8 program and unlocks funding for major capital repairs while preserving affordability.

The renovation plans include new windows, roofs and elevators, along with upgraded heating systems and restored laundry facilities. The renovations will also revamp outdoor areas with seating, landscaping, and playground space. Security improvements will bring cameras, LED lighting, and modern entry systems.

“We’re looking forward to upgrades to our apartments, the buildings, and social services,” said Metro North Plaza Tenant Association President Stanley Johnson. “More than anything, though, we’re looking forward to a new way of living.”

Wavecrest Management will take over daily property management, while nonprofit partners including The Community Builders and Ascendant Neighborhood Development will oversee the renovation and provide expanded social services.

Tenant leaders said the milestone brings relief after years of waiting.

“We’ve been waiting quite a while for this, and it’s a relief to know that we have, with Wavecrest, a management team that will address the problems we’ve had to live with for a long time,” said Gaylord White Houses Tenant Association President William Betancourt. “It feels like a miracle to see these changes coming to our community. We’re looking forward to not just better apartments, but a better quality of life.”

Construction is expected to take about three years, NYCHA officials said.