The major renovation of the Orchard Place affordable housing community in Greece, NY, represents a significant investment in sustainable urban redevelopment. With a total project cost of $64 million, the initiative aims to preserve 312 affordable housing units, addressing a critical need in Monroe County's housing market. The project is spearheaded by PathStone Enterprise Center, with LeChase Construction Services as the general contractor. The renovation is supported by a mix of funding sources, including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and HUD Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers.
Orchard Place spans 18 acres and includes 12 buildings. The renovation will upgrade approximately 350,000 square feet of residential space, comprising 240 one-bedroom, 60 two-bedroom, and 12 three-bedroom units. The development targets households earning 30-60% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with rents ranging from $650 to $1,200 per month. The project is on track for completion in Q4 2026, with a resident move-in target of November 15, 2026.
The renovation aims for LEED Silver certification, incorporating energy efficiency upgrades that are expected to reduce energy use by 40%. New amenities include a 5,000-square-foot community center, a playground, and eight EV charging stations. These enhancements align with sustainable building practices, contributing to reduced utility costs for residents by an estimated 35%.
The project is anticipated to create 250 construction jobs and 15 permanent property management positions. Importantly, the renovation process ensures no resident displacement, prioritizing current tenants. The community center is expected to serve over 500 families annually, enhancing the local quality of life. Despite minor concerns about construction traffic, a traffic management plan has been implemented to mitigate disruptions.
The $64 million renovation is financed through a combination of sources. LIHTC contributes $28.5 million, while HUD Section 8 Vouchers provide $12 million. Additional funding includes $8.2 million from Monroe County's PILOT program, $6.5 million from the NYS Affordable Housing Trust Fund, $4.8 million from PathStone's equity investment, and a $4 million construction loan from KeyBank.
The project has received all necessary regulatory approvals, including zoning approval for the R-2 Residential District and a SEQRA Negative Declaration for environmental review. Building permits were issued in February 2025, with 95% of inspections passed to date. The Article 11 IDA tax exemption provides a 30-year PILOT agreement, supporting the project's financial viability.
Monroe County faces a significant affordable housing deficit, with a vacancy rate of 4.2% and a shortage of 12,000 affordable units. The Orchard Place renovation strengthens PathStone's portfolio, which now exceeds 2,100 units, and reinforces Greece as a hub for affordable housing development. The project stabilizes rents in a competitive market, with the average rent for a one-bedroom unit in Greece at $1,450, compared to Orchard Place's target average of $850.
The Orchard Place renovation exemplifies successful public-private partnerships in addressing the affordable housing crisis. By preserving and enhancing existing units, the project not only meets immediate housing needs but also sets a precedent for future developments in the region. As the project progresses towards its 2026 completion, it remains a critical component of Monroe County's broader housing strategy.
The construction techniques employed in the Orchard Place renovation include advanced insulation methods and the use of sustainable materials. These techniques not only contribute to energy efficiency but also enhance the durability and longevity of the buildings. The construction team is utilizing prefabricated components to expedite the building process while maintaining high-quality standards.
Community engagement has been a cornerstone of the Orchard Place renovation project. Regular meetings with residents and local stakeholders have been conducted to gather feedback and address concerns. This collaborative approach ensures that the renovation meets the needs of the community and fosters a sense of ownership among residents.
The success of the Orchard Place renovation is expected to pave the way for future construction projects in Greece, NY. The town is poised for growth, with several other affordable housing projects in the pipeline. These developments will further solidify Greece's reputation as a leader in sustainable and affordable housing solutions.
