From left, Kensico Terrace developer Bill Brown, County Executive Andy Spano, Congresswoman Nita Lowey, young resident, County Board Chair Bill Ryan and Kensico Terrace developer James Bason, Jr. in one of the new units.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on October 11 for Kensico Terrace Apartments in White Plains. The county’s newest affordable housing complex features 42 rental units in an attractive five-story building, constructed by local developers. The units include 1- and 2-bedroom apartments. 

“The shortage of affordable housing hurts middle-income wage earners who want to live in White Plains," said County Board Chair Bill Ryan who represents White Plains. "Many who work in our schools, local government, the hospital, retail stores and service businesses find it difficult to afford housing. We're changing that by building more workforce and senior housing. Opening Kensico Terrace is an important step toward providing middle-income families and our seniors with more housing options."

During the opening ceremony, Chairman Ryan commented that Bill Brown and his partner, James Bason, deserve alot of credit for sticking with this project considering the obstacles they had to overcome. Working out the financing and complying with the complicated rules and regulations of government agencies were tough enough but trying to keep pace with the escalating costs as the project dragged on for six years added to the difficulty. But, in the end, they got it built and dozens of people have a real high quality building to call home.

Ryan said, "Six years are far too long, considering the overwhelming demand for workforce and senior housing. Governments at all levels must do a better job of streamlining this process."

County provides over $2 million in funding:

-$896,500 from the county's New   Homes Land Acquisition program;

-$860,000 from county's share of  federal HOME funds

-$300,000 from the county in community development block grant funds.

ELIGIBILITY: Available to seniors and families with household incomes at or below 60 percent of the county Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, 60 percent of the county AMI is $57,900. Monthly rent for 1-bedroom units ranges from  $850 to $1,239, depending on size.

The housing will remain affordable for 40 years.

For further information on Kensico Terrace, please call (914) 841-6831.