LEED Homes Awards Winners Revitalize Affordable Housing
It is for good reason the following projects received LEED Homes Awards for 2020 in the Affordable Housing category. Each stands as an example of what is possible in that realm of development when energy efficiency, social equity and high design are combined for the betterment of people and place. It is uncommon for a housing project to be ideally located, sustainably designed, architecturally pleasing and attainable for local residents who are often marginalized. All three buildings hit every mark, setting an example for widespread affordable housing reform.
FREEDOM COMMONS
Located in the historically underserved South Side neighborhood of Syracuse, New York, Freedom Commons was born out of a collaboration between the Syracuse Housing Authority, the Center for Community Alternatives, and North Star Homes and Development. Designed to support formerly incarcerated individuals, the project was intended to add more equity to the region—a place ripe for investment.
The building houses 54 apartments, with 43 affordable units designated for individuals or families with incomes at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI); 11 permanent supportive units are designated for those whose incomes are at or below 30% of the AMI and who have experienced homelessness and involvement with the criminal justice system. On-site support services include access to education, recovery programs, employment and civic restoration training, housing support and case management.