In a groundbreaking transformation project next to Flushing, the Willets Point redevelopment plan is set to create 2,500 affordable housing units. The first phase consists of a total of three affordable housing buildings, with two of them totaling 880 units nearing completion. It is expected that these units will be officially available for occupancy in April 2026, with lottery applications set to open this December. Individuals can participate in the lottery through the NYC Housing Connect website platform, with 150 units specifically reserved for residents of Community Board 7.
This large-scale residential development project, led by the Queens Development Group (a joint venture between Related Companies and Sterling Equities), is a pivotal aspect of the city government’s initiative to revamp the entire Willets Point area.
The two buildings in the first phase collectively known as “Willets Point Commons” broke ground at the end of 2023 and are currently progressing smoothly. The lottery application process is expected to commence in December, with the development team considering an extension of the application period from 60 to 75 days.
Priority for the 880 units will be given to several categories of residents, including: 1. 150 units prioritized for residents of Community Board 7 in Queens; 2. 18 units for individuals with hearing or visual impairments; 3. 45 units for individuals with mobility challenges; 4. 38 units for city employees.
Regarding rental costs: Studios starting at $486 per month (annual income requirement: $20,469 to $34,020); One-bedroom units starting at $617 per month (annual income requirement: $25,509 to $74,960); Two-bedroom units starting at $728 per month (annual income requirement: $30,789 to $262,500); Three-bedroom units starting at $830 per month (annual income requirement: $35,726 to $301,350). For more detailed information on income and rental rates, visit: https://www.livewilletspoint.com/
Applicants must create an account on the Housing Connect website platform and submit relevant documentation, including recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, last year’s federal and state tax returns, benefit certification letters, child support or alimony documents, as well as bank or asset verification.
The third building in the first phase will be designated for senior housing, consisting of 220 units, with the design phase completed and construction slated to begin in 2026.
The developers emphasize that regardless of the income qualification level of the residents, all units are designed with consistent quality standards.
For more information on the property, visit: https://www.livewilletspoint.com/; To submit a lottery application, visit: https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/