Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced the Pro-Housing Communities Program, a statewide initiative aimed at prioritizing localities committed to housing growth for up to $650 million in state discretionary funds.  

As part of a set of executive actions to promote housing growth, the program invites municipalities, including cities, towns, and villages, to apply for Pro-Housing Community certification. These certified communities will receive preference in their applications for specific discretionary funds, including the $650 million State grant programs like the Downtown Revitalization Initiative.  

The initiative’s goal is to address the housing crisis in New York by incentivizing local governments to contribute to increasing housing supply. To attain Pro-Housing Community designation, municipalities need to provide zoning and housing permit data, and those showcasing housing stock growth will qualify for certification. The program seeks to encourage housing development while rewarding communities actively participating in housing solutions.