Falco and DeFusco: Building Additional Affordable Housing Will Take Center Stage as Top Priority of 2021

HOBOKEN, N.J. — Continuing on her push to protect longtime residents from being priced out of their homes, Council Vice President Vanessa Falco is bringing all parties to the table to identify viable solutions to secure dozens of new affordable housing units in 2021. On Tuesday, Falco has organized a City Council community meeting to discuss a proposal to build a five story building at the corner of Willow Avenue and 11th Street that would be designated entirely as affordable housing for low and moderate income individuals over the age of 55.

“As a lifelong resident of Hoboken, I’ve witnessed first hand the cost of living skyrocket in Hoboken over the past two decades, forcing countless families to make the difficult decision to move out of their hometown,” said Council Vice President Vanessa Falco, Chairwoman of the Affordable Housing Subcommittee. “The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the affordability crisis our city faces and by working collaboratively with the Mayor, the City Council will ensure anyone who calls Hoboken home can continue to do so, regardless of their economic class.”

Additionally, Vice President Falco and Zoning Subcommittee Chairman Councilman Mike DeFusco are working closely to update the city’s zoning code to incentivize more affordable housing citywide. Legislation that will be ready for a City Council vote in early 2021 follows recommendations from Hoboken’s 2018 Master Plan, which DeFusco helped craft while Council Representative to the Planning Board.

“Hoboken’s greatest strength is in its diversity of residents and unfortunately, dated zoning laws have long prevented us from creating additional affordable housing options and opportunities for new small businesses,”said Councilman Mike DeFusco, Chairman of the Zoning Subcommittee. “This is a city for everyone, not just the wealthy, and by revising dated zoning laws to work better for all residents, Hoboken can build its middle class and entice makers, creators and innovators to bring their talents into our community.”

Tuesday night’s community meeting will be held virtually on Zoom at 7:00 p.m. and streamed lived on Facebook and YouTube. Anyone wishing to attend can do so by entering the meeting ID: 827 4083 9295 and passcode: 237450 or by phone call: 646-876-9923.