Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Governor Kathy Hochul announced the first residents as part of Phase 1 of Perry Homes in Buffalo. The governor giving the keys to Shavira Pittman now with three children, Pittman saying that she is grateful for Hochul's caring for wanting to change.
"It's every emotion you can think of." Pittman said. "You want to laugh, cry, smile, just very joyful and grateful."
Perry Homes I is the first phase of a multi-phase transformation plan and involves the redevelopment of an 18-acre portion of the existing public housing development site. Once complete, the new Perry Homes will include 405 high-quality apartments, all of which will be affordable to households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income. Residents will be provided with free broad band internet service and Wi-Fi, along with access to green space and outdoor amenities such as four playgrounds. Each playground is designed to maximize play for children ages two through 12.
Pittman now with a newborn said that this will be very special for her kids especially for her youngest child.
"For his age, this is amazing for him." Pittman said. "As he gets older, he'll have the remembrance of being of being able to be in home and a nice environment and nice establishment."
The governor sees this as a huge milestone as she continues her commitment to addressing the housing crisis.
“It is an honor to welcome the first residents of the new Perry Homes to a place where they can live comfortably and affordably with access to all of the things that make Buffalo and this First Ward neighborhood so special,” Governor Hochul said. “This is a huge milestone as this development begins to take shape and open its doors. This long-anticipated development that replaces an unfortunate symbol of decline is now a symbol of pride and will not only increase the supply of quality housing in Buffalo, but provide countless opportunities for families, businesses, and the entire city to grow and thrive.”