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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans announced a $13 million investment in affordable homeownership on November 10, 2025, breaking ground on a transformative development that will create 22 new single-family homes in Rochester's Upper Falls neighborhood—a historically redlined and predominantly minority community.
This groundbreaking project represents a coordinated effort to combat decades of disinvestment in one of Rochester's most underserved neighborhoods. The development is a collaborative partnership between:
The project directly addresses Rochester's affordable housing crisis while building generational wealth for first-time homebuyers in a community that has historically faced barriers to homeownership.
The $13 million investment comes from multiple sources, reflecting strong public-private coordination:
When complete, the development will feature a diverse mix of housing types designed to accommodate different family sizes and needs:
Three homes will be fully ADA-compliant, featuring roll-in showers, grab bars, and accessible kitchen features—ensuring accessibility for residents with disabilities.
The homes are designed to be attainable for households earning between 50–60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). To qualify, buyers must complete a HUD-certified first-time homebuyer education program before purchase.
HCR's investment includes a $20,000 subsidy for homes meeting energy efficiency performance standards, promoting both environmental sustainability and long-term cost savings for homeowners.
Construction has begun on the homes, with completion expected by 2027. This timeline ensures the project will provide immediate economic stimulus to Rochester's construction industry while delivering homes within a reasonable timeframe.
Rochester's Upper Falls neighborhood has faced decades of disinvestment and systemic barriers to homeownership. This project represents a strategic effort to reverse that trend by combining government resources, faith-based leadership, and private development expertise. By creating 22 new owner-occupied homes in this community, the project aims to:
The project received strong support from local and state leaders, including U.S. Congressman Joe Morelle, U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas, State Senators Samra Brouk and Jeremy Cooney, and State Assemblymember Demond Meeks.
First Genesis Baptist Church's development arm is playing a central role in this initiative. Reverend Dr. Frederick Johnson Sr. noted: "After many years of prayer, planning and collaboration, the First Genesis Single Family Homes project will be the anchor project to transform families and neighborhoods while changing the landscape for generations."
For Rochester's construction industry, this project represents significant activity in residential construction during 2025-2027. The development will employ construction workers, support local material suppliers, and contribute to Rochester's economic growth during a period when the regional construction market is adapting to financing challenges.
Sources: Monroe County Executive Office press release (November 10, 2025); City of Rochester official announcement; Rochester Democrat and Chronicle coverage
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