A Vision for Affordable and Supportive Housing: Breaking Ground on La Olazul
Big things are happening at Westhab. Construction is officially underway on La Olazul, a transformative new development in the Mount Hope neighborhood of The Bronx. This 115-unit affordable and supportive housing project is poised to make a lasting impact on the community, providing homes and a range of vital services to those who need them most.
La Olazul is more than a new building—it’s a symbol of hope for 115 households. Designed with a mix of 69 supportive housing units for individuals overcoming homelessness, mental illness, or substance use disorders, and 46 affordable units for families earning up to 60% of the area’s median income, La Olazul reflects a holistic approach to tackling New York’s housing crisis. The project is a collaboration between Westhab, Vaya Development, and several key public and private partners, with significant support from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) and other government agencies.
A Community Hub for the Mount Hope Neighborhood
Beyond the residential spaces, La Olazul is designed to be a true community hub. The development includes 8,500 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor—offering new opportunities for local businesses and services. It will also feature a variety of resident-focused amenities, such as:
- On-site support services are provided by Westhab to help residents access the resources they need to thrive.
- Community room, where residents can gather, connect, and participate in enriching activities.
- Recreation areas and an outdoor terrace, provide places for residents to relax and socialize.
- Free broadband internet, ensuring that all residents have access to essential digital resources.
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Design
One of the most exciting features of La Olazul is its commitment to sustainability. The building is designed to meet Passive House standards, one of the most rigorous energy efficiency certifications available. This means lower energy costs for residents and a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Key sustainability features include a green roof that helps manage stormwater and provides additional green space for residents.
La Olazul sets a standard for energy-efficient and sustainable urban living.
Investment in the Bronx’s Future
This development is a key piece of Governor Kathy Hochul’s $25 billion five-year Housing Plan, which aims to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes across New York State. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson expressed her support for the project, saying,
“La Olazul stands as a promise of stability, dignity, and possibility for residents of the Mt. Hope community—a place they can proudly call home. Every person deserves the dignity of a place to call home.””
– Bronx Borough President, Vanessa Gibson
A Collaborative Effort
The development of La Olazul was made possible thanks to the efforts of many dedicated partners. In addition to Westhab and Vaya Development, Enterprise Community Partners and TD Bank provided critical financial supportThe project also benefits from a $35.1 million investment through the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program and additional loans and grants from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).
Senator Charles Schumer, who played a key role in securing federal resources for affordable housing, shared his excitement, “I’m proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit has delivered $3.4 million to help build La Olazul in the Bronx—a new development for 115 affordable apartments with access to support services and free broadband internet.”
As La Olazul begins to take shape, it represents a commitment to the future of The Bronx. The development will provide a much-needed safe haven for vulnerable individuals and families while contributing to the revitalization of the Mount Hope neighborhood. It reflects Westhab’s mission to provide not just homes, but also the support and resources necessary to help entire communities thrive.
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