Governor Hochul Announces Groundbreaking on 34-Unit Specialized Housing Building in Schenectady to Provide Stability for Vulnerable Populations

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the groundbreaking for Mohawk Heights, a 34-unit housing development in Schenectady for adults living with mental illness who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless - marking a milestone in her administration's $2 billion in investments in strengthening the state's mental health system. Developed with $15.6 million from the Office of Mental Health plus approximately $750,000 in annual operating funds, the new construction is the first capital project to break ground as part of the landmark initiative to transform all aspects of New York's continuum of care.

"From greatly expanding the availability of services to establishing much-needed housing units, our work to address mental health needs with a fresh approach across the state continues to pay dividends," Governor Hochul said. "Mohawk Heights will offer stable housing in a welcoming community setting, ensuring residents remain connected with support whenever they need it."

Located at 1614 State Street, Mohawk Heights will be operated by Mohawk Opportunities, Inc., with initial capital financing during construction from OMH that will be replaced by a permanent bond mortgage issued through the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and funded through OMH. OMH will also be providing ongoing operating funding support. The 11,459-square-foot building is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027. 

Governor Hochul's initial transformative plan to strengthen the mental health system included $890 million in capital and $120 million in operating funds to establish and operate 3,500 new specialized housing units to serve New Yorkers living with mental illness, including 500 additional community residence-single room occupancy units like those at Mohawk Heights. There are now 1,276 units of specialized housing funded through the plan that are now in service and an additional 2,224 units being developed.

Community residence-single room occupancy units offer housing and intensive services to individuals over the age of 18 who face the highest risk of homelessness due to their mental illness. This includes individuals experiencing homelessness and those being discharged from hospitals, forensic facilities, shelters, residential treatment facilities, and other settings who will benefit from intensive support and structure in the community residence as they reintegrate into the community and continue their recovery.

New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, "Access to safe, stable housing offers individuals necessary security and support during transitions in their lives. When it opens, Mohawk Heights will help dozens of residents connect with ongoing services as they reestablish roots within the community. We are grateful to see such tangible examples of progress in implementing Governor Hochul's vision for a mental health system that meets all New Yorkers where they are and guarantees that no one has to confront a mental health crisis alone."

State Senator Samra Brouk said, "As Chair of the Senate Mental Health Committee, I recognize that we must keep working to transform New York State's continuum of care to meet the mental health needs of our residents. I applaud the Office of Mental Health and Governor Hochul for making investments that strengthen our mental health system to support New Yorkers with mental illness that are at risk of experiencing homelessness and empower them in their recovery."

Assemblymember Phil Steck said, "The groundbreaking at Mohawk Heights represents an important step forward in addressing the intersection of mental health and housing insecurity in our community. As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, I see every day how often individuals struggling with addiction are also living with co-occurring mental health disorders. In many cases, these challenges are compounded by a lack of stable housing, which makes recovery even more difficult. Developments like this provide not only a safe place to live, but also the supportive services people need to move forward, manage their mental health and build a path toward stability and independence."

Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, "Access to safe, stable housing is essential to supporting individuals on their path to recovery. Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York State is making critical investments to expand these opportunities. DASNY is proud to support the development of Mohawk Heights and grateful to our partners at the Office of Mental Health and Mohawk Opportunities for their shared commitment to strengthening communities."

Mohawk Opportunities, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Steve Klein said, "Fostering a welcoming community for all is central to our mission, and we are truly looking forward to celebrating the opening of Mohawk Heights next year. This new residence represents an important step forward in expanding housing opportunities in Schenectady and strengthening the continuum of care in our community. We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and the New York State Office of Mental Health for their partnership and shared commitment to making this vision a reality."

City of Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy said, "The forthcoming Mohawk Heights development will provide needed stable housing for members of our community as they maintain connections to supports. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her commitment to ensuring all New Yorkers can live safely and overcome challenges."

Similar extended stay housing projects are in the early stages of development in St. Lawrence, Erie, and Bronx counties. Licensed providers are required to maintain 24-hour staffing with on-site services that promote wellness and recovery and active linkages to other services in the community.

Contact the Governor's Press Office