State Housing Advocates Applaud Governor Spitzer's $100M in Housing Opportunity Funds for Upstate

NEW YORK, NY (01/16/2008)(readMedia)-- Below are statements in support of Governor Spitzer’s proposal to create a Housing Opportunity Fund that will provide $100 million to upstate New York for its housing needs.

James L. Rykowski, Regional Director of The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC)’s Western New York office in Buffalo:

“CPC applauds Governor Spitzer’s historic and visionary plan to provide communities throughout the state with much-needed funding for affordable housing. The unprecedented and significant $100 million investment for Upstate housing and community development will help revitalize our Upstate economy through the creation of new jobs and new housing opportunities.”

Judith Nelson, President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of New York State (HFH-NYS):

“New Yorkers everywhere are struggling with the high cost of housing. We are pleased that the Governor is addressing the long-neglected crisis in affordable housing, faltering economies and declining neighborhoods—conditions that are especially debilitating in the state’s northern regions.

“Investing in building new affordable homes and renovating low-income housing stock will stimulate our region’s economy, revitalize communities and improve the lives of our residents. This new plan underscores Governor Spitzer’s understanding of the value of a dollar invested wisely. It is a victory for low-income New Yorkers who need decent, affordable homes and for New York’s economy.”

Attached is the full press release from HFH-NYS.