Rockland County Advances Affordable Housing Efforts With New Development and Public Awareness Campaign

Rockland County is continuing to push forward on affordable housing initiatives with a combination of redevelopment projects, public education efforts, and long-term planning strategies aimed at addressing the region’s growing housing challenges. County officials say the effort is designed to help seniors, essential workers, veterans, young professionals, and longtime residents remain in the communities they call home. 

One of the county’s most significant recent announcements is the proposed redevelopment of the long-vacant Sain Building property in New City. County officials selected Regan Development Corporation and the Rockland Housing Action Coalition to lead the transformation of the approximately 3.69-acre site into a mixed-use affordable housing development. Plans currently include 48 affordable rental units, retail space, and public recreation areas. The proposal also includes housing preferences for veterans, first responders, essential workers, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

According to county officials, the redevelopment proposal was selected after a competitive review process and public presentations that drew strong community feedback in favor of the plan’s green space, affordability, and neighborhood sensitivity. The project still requires approval from the Rockland County Legislature and must move through additional planning and funding stages before construction begins. 

At the same time, Rockland County has launched its “Keep Rockland Home” campaign, an initiative focused on changing public perceptions surrounding affordable housing. County Executive Ed Day said the campaign aims to humanize the housing crisis and educate residents about the role affordable housing plays in supporting local workers, families, and seniors. Officials noted that more than 40% of Rockland residents currently spend over 30% of their income on housing costs, according to the county’s housing needs assessment. 

The county’s broader housing strategy also includes the Housing Action Loan Opportunity program, which allocates $13.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding toward workforce housing creation and preservation. County leaders say these combined efforts are intended to increase housing supply while maintaining neighborhood character and supporting long-term economic stability throughout Rockland County.