Affordable housing for Westchester cities

I am writing to support the inclusion of affordable housing as a top priority of the Hudson Valley Regional Economic Development Council. Affordable-housing advocates have identified the severe gap between income and housing prices, leading Westchester to become one of the most expensive areas in the country to live. This affordability gap will continue to hamper the economic vitality of the county unless housing can serve all strata of the workforce. The economic multiplier effect of housing production, and resulting increase in both construction/permanent jobs, is well documented. Also, a diverse mix of housing must be considered as important as taxes, transportation accessibility and an educated population to retain, grow and attract business.

African American Men of Westchester is a strong supporter of access to “fair and affordable” housing for all people, and commends the state and county for committing funds to facilitate its development throughout Westchester. However, we must also continue to invest in the cities, and urbanized areas of the county that have traditionally provided affordable-housing options for young households, the elderly and the less affluent that help to make Westchester diverse. Sound land-use policies such as sustainability and transit-oriented development highlight the benefits of guiding revitalization efforts and new growth into existing centers.

We have already seen how housing has helped spur the economic revitalization of downtowns like White Plains, New Rochelle and Peekskill, and we need to continue to capitalize on the existing infrastructure in our centers to create new jobs and business.

Lawrence C. Salley

White Plains

The writer is chairman, African American Men of Westchester Housing Development Corporation.

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