Citizen Advocates ended 2021 on an extremely positive note after learning it was awarded the final piece of funding needed to proceed with construction of the Harison Place Project.

A transformational initiative, the Harison Place Project replaces blighted properties with safe, stable and affordable housing in the heart of downtown Malone.  

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) granted the final piece of funding needed, a $4.7 million award, as part of a competitive process used to award federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and subsidy financing for affordable and supportive multifamily housing developments. 

Construction of the Harison Place Project, now fully funded and valued at $21.8 million, is expected to commence in Spring, 2022.

A brief look back:

• The Harison Place Project has been in development since 2016.

• Citizen Advocates already committed significant resources to complete the demolition phase and prep the project site.

• The demolition phase of the project was completed late in 2021 with the removal of the last building on the block. After removal of all debris, the site was made shovel ready for construction. 

This incredible mix of affordable housing, beautiful architecture and clean commercial space will serve as a cornerstone project for Malone as it revitalizes the downtown corridor. Once completed, the Harison Place Project will breathe new life into a prominent portion of West Main Street with the construction of street-level commercial storefronts and 40 units for supportive and low- to moderate-income housing.  

“This represents a huge win for Malone—we are grateful to HCR, our local leaders, elected officials and so many other individuals for continuing to believe in this vital project and our community,” said James Button, CEO of Citizen Advocates. “It is also noteworthy to mention our deep appreciation for our other funding partners that have stuck with us through it all. Special thanks to Dana Greenberg, from Office of Temporary Disability Assistance, our partners at Federal Home Loan Bank, Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, as well as our State Partners from Empire State Development, the Office of Mental Health and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports.”

This initiative exemplifies how, in addition to providing a wide range of leading-edge clinical services, Citizen Advocates offers supports that promote individual health through stable housing, job training and transportation.