County Executive Adam Bello and Mayor Malik Evans unveil a major $13 million plan to create new affordable homes and revitalize Rochester’s historic Upper Falls neighborhood

Monroe County, New York – In a historic step toward addressing long-standing housing inequities, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Rochester Mayor Malik Evans have announced a sweeping $13 million investment to expand affordable homeownership in Rochester’s Upper Falls neighborhood. The initiative, which broke ground this week, aims to create 22 new single-family homes and breathe new life into a community that has faced generations of redlining and economic neglect.

The ambitious project is the result of collaboration among several key partners — the First Genesis Development Corporation, Rochester Management Inc., Atlas Construction, and Passero Associates. Together, they are working to reshape the fabric of a neighborhood that has endured decades of disinvestment, transforming it into a place of stability, opportunity, and renewed pride.

At the heart of the plan is a simple but powerful goal: to make homeownership accessible to families who have long been excluded from it. The project targets households earning between 50% and 60% of the Area Median Income, ensuring that the dream of owning a home becomes attainable for working families rather than a distant aspiration.

A Partnership Rooted in Equity and Renewal

Funding for the project comes from a variety of local, state, and federal sources. The New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) agency is providing $4.8 million through its Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program, which specifically supports initiatives that open doors for first-time home buyers. Monroe County is contributing $1.86 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, while the City of Rochester is adding $1.5 million in ARPA money and another $500,000 approved by the City Council.

County Executive Adam Bello emphasized that this effort is about more than just bricks and mortar — it’s about reversing historic wrongs and rebuilding trust between local government and residents who have long felt forgotten.

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“Safe, affordable housing and equitable access to homeownership are the foundation of a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community,” said Bello. “For too long, disinvestment and redlining have denied too many families the opportunity to build stability and generational wealth. Today’s groundbreaking represents more than new homes — it’s a commitment from local government and our partners to right those wrongs, remove barriers and ensure every resident has the opportunity to thrive. I want to thank First Genesis Development Corporation, Rochester Management Inc., and all our partners for making this vision a reality. My gratitude also goes to Mayor Evans, Governor Hochul, Congressman Morelle, my colleagues in the Legislature and all our funding partners for their continued dedication to creating affordable, sustainable homes in our city.”

Mayor Malik Evans echoed that message, highlighting how targeted investments in neighborhoods like Upper Falls can create lasting, positive change.

“Today’s progress shows what happens when we invest in residents and partner with organizations rooted in community,” Evans said. “I want to thank First Genesis Housing Development and our county, state and federal partners for believing in this work and investing in the future of our city. Homeownership strengthens families, stabilizes neighborhoods and builds generational wealth. The momentum we’re seeing here is proof that these investments inspire confidence and that confidence inspires hope that continues to move our city forward.”

Transforming a Once-Redlined Neighborhood

The Upper Falls neighborhood, located in the city’s northeast corridor, has a deep history — one marked by both resilience and systemic barriers. Once redlined by discriminatory housing policies that denied families of color access to loans and investment, the area has long struggled with high vacancy rates, deteriorating housing, and limited economic opportunities.

That’s why leaders and community advocates view this new investment as more than a construction project. It’s a symbolic and practical step toward restoring fairness in housing policy and helping families begin to build generational wealth.

When complete, the development will feature a mix of single-story and two-story homes — including five two-bedroom ranch-style houses, six three-bedroom ranch homes, and eleven two-story homes with full basements. Three of the homes will be fully ADA-compliant, designed with roll-in showers, accessible kitchens, and other features to support residents with disabilities.

Federal and State Leaders Applaud Local Action

Support for the project stretches well beyond Monroe County. Several members of New York’s congressional delegation praised the partnership as an example of how government can effectively collaborate to meet housing needs.

“This project represents what’s possible when government, faith institutions, and neighbors come together to strengthen our community,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “By investing in safe and affordable housing, we’re not just building homes—we’re building hope and opportunity for families across Rochester. I’m grateful to First Genesis Development Corporation, County Executive Bello, Mayor Evans, and all our state and community partners for their commitment to this project, and I look forward to our continued work together to build safe and affordable housing for all.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who helped secure ARPA funding through federal legislation, praised Monroe County’s creative use of those dollars.

“Every family deserves the dignity and economic stability that comes with owning a home,” said Schumer. “Monroe County continues to think outside the box and find strategic ways to use the federal dollars I delivered through the American Rescue Plan to build a stronger, fairer future. By turning those funds into real homes for working families, the county and the City of Rochester are proving once again that smart, targeted investments can spark renewal and opportunity in every neighborhood.”

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand also highlighted the project’s potential to address the broader housing crisis.

“Buying your first home should be affordable and accessible,” said Gillibrand. “This transformative development will help tackle the housing crisis in Rochester and build a stronger and healthier community, taking a step in the right direction of fixing historic wrongs. Through this project, individuals will have access to safe, affordable homes, allowing them to build financial security for future generations. I commend County Executive Bello, Mayor Evans, and all the partners involved for working to make life more affordable for low-income and moderate-income families. I was proud to secure a portion of this funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, and I will continue working to ensure that all New York communities have access to affordable housing.”

A Community-Driven Effort

The faith community has also played a vital role in making this project a reality. The First Genesis Baptist Church, led by Reverend Dr. Frederick Johnson Sr., has long been a spiritual and community anchor in the Upper Falls area. Its development arm, the First Genesis Development Corporation, spearheaded the initiative and helped align partnerships with government agencies and private-sector builders.

“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. This project fulfills the testimony that collaboration with the faith community, civic and private entities can transform our city and start to build generational wealth in underserved and underinvested communities,” said Reverend Dr. Frederick Johnson Sr., President and CEO of First Genesis Development Corporation.

Scott Procious, President and CEO of Rochester Management Inc., emphasized the project’s long-term social benefits.

“We are proud to be part of such a transformative project—one that will provide 22 families the opportunity to experience homeownership, an achievement that may have otherwise remained out of reach,” said Procious. “This initiative is a powerful example of what can be accomplished through collaboration. Together, we are building more than homes—we are building futures, stability, and stronger communities. We look forward to continuing this important work and witnessing the positive impact it will have on families for generations to come.”

Broader Support From State Leaders

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas called the project “transformative,” noting that HCR’s $4.8 million investment will directly help 22 families secure affordable homes.

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“This project will be transformative for homebuyers in the historically underserved Upper Falls neighborhood. Our Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program’s $4.8 million investment will help give 22 families the chance to afford homes they can call their own. We thank our partners First Genesis Baptist Church, the County, and the City for their dedication and look forward to seeing this project help families in the Upper Falls community thrive.”

NYS Senator Samra Brouk underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing the housing shortage.

“Securing affordable housing is becoming an increasing challenge for New Yorkers. To lessen the burden on families and create long-term stability, we need to make sure there are more affordable homes for first-time home buyers. Through collaboration and strong partnership, we are witnessing a meaningful investment in our residents’ livelihoods with the First Genesis Housing Development and their vision to create homes that will support future generations.”

Assemblymember Demond Meeks said the development marks a turning point for neighborhoods that have long been overlooked.

“Ensuring that families in historically overlooked neighborhoods have access to safe, affordable housing is essential to building a more just and equitable Rochester. Affordable homeownership is one of the most powerful tools we have to help families build generational wealth and long-term stability, and this project brings meaningful investment to a community that has faced decades of disinvestment. This initiative also shows what is possible when government, community organizations, and local partners come together with a shared purpose. The Upper Falls development represents opportunity, stability, and a renewed commitment to uplifting every corner of our city. I look forward to seeing the lasting impact these homes will have for generations to come.”

NYS Senator Jeremy Cooney echoed those sentiments, linking the project to broader state efforts to expand housing access.

“We have a housing affordability crisis here in Monroe County and across New York, it’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach to provide stable options for our community members. That’s why in the state I’m working to loosen restrictions for faith-based organizations to be able to provide affordable housing, and why I’m proud to see the vision of Pastor Johnson coming to fruition at First Genesis. Thanks to his leadership, along with County Executive Bello, Mayor Evans, Congressman Morelle, and the rest of our partners, we are tackling this crisis head-on to build stability for Rochesterians.”

Building Homes, Building Futures

Each of the new homes will meet modern energy efficiency standards, and those that exceed certain environmental benchmarks will qualify for an additional $20,000 subsidy through HCR’s program — a move that promotes both sustainability and affordability. Homebuyers will also be required to complete a HUD-certified first-time homebuyer education program, equipping them with financial literacy and home maintenance skills before purchasing.

Additional backing for the initiative comes from the ESL Foundation, the Greater Rochester Housing Partnership, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).

Construction on the First Genesis Single Family Homes is already underway, with completion expected by 2027. By then, the Upper Falls neighborhood will not only have 22 new homes but also a renewed sense of community and hope for the future.

This $13 million investment is more than just a real estate development — it’s a statement about what Rochester can achieve when every level of government, along with faith-based and community partners, come together with a shared vision. It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t happen overnight, but through consistent collaboration and a belief that every family deserves a place to call home.

And for the residents of Upper Falls, that dream is finally within reach.