Renovated McGinley Square YMCA now Apartments for the Formerly Homeless

One-Time McGinley Square YMCA Now Apartments for the Formerly Homeless

Mayor Steven M. Fulop joined The Community Builders and the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency today to celebrate the grand opening of Bergenview Apartments, a supportive housing development at 654 Bergen Avenue in McGinley Square that was once a YMCA. Still designated a historic property, Bergenview comprises over 110 studio apartments that will be rented to formerly homeless individuals. 

“These newly renovated units provide formerly homeless residents with a place they can really feel at home with their very own kitchen and bathroom facilities and other updated amenities,” said Mayor Fulop.

The Community Builders, which operates programs and residential communities for families, seniors, and adults with disabilities, acquired the historic YMCA building in 1999 after it had become a 210-unit, single-room-occupancy building. Using HUD funds, the organization converted the structure into a 131-unit building containing 59 SRO units and 72 studios serving formerly homeless residents. 

In November 2020, the outfit secured further HUD financing to convert the remaining 59 SRO units into 40 studio units.

“The Community Builders is thrilled to give this historic site new life as Bergenview Apartments, providing residents with stable housing and supportive services to make the neighborhood even stronger,” said Jacqueline Alexander, TCB’s regional Vice President for real estate development. 

Bergenview will offer residents not just affordable private residences but numerous social services, recreational opportunities, and communal gathering places. Its amenities include an “on-site property management and social service suite,” a gym, bike storage room, a demonstration kitchen, a “learning center,” and a community room replete with foosball and ping pong tables.

Bergenview Apartments achieved ENERGY STAR and Enterprise Green Communities (EGC) certifications. The rehabilitation also enhanced major building systems, including HVAC, the roof, and the elevator. 

The preservation of Bergenview Apartments was made possible through funding provided by NJHMFA, low-income housing tax credit equity, FHLB-AHP funding, and TD Bank. Architectural services were provided by Kramer+Marks Architects.