When the Vacant Rental Program launched across New York in 2025, the Broome County Land Bank was awarded $1.1 million with the goal of renovating 15-20 units by the end of 2026.
Funding could be used for renovations around plumbing, electricity, code compliance, HVAC systems, kitchen improvements, lead paint and asbestos testing — including associated abatement and/or encapsulation.
At a March 2025 press conference announcing the new program, government officials and representatives from the Land Bank gathered outside 181 Hawley St. to present the first property to undergo renovations through the program.
During the first round of applications, the Land Bank received over 30, which exceeded the amount of funding they had to distribute, and a year after announcing the project, work on the Hawley Street property has yet to begin.
What’s happening with 181 Hawley St.?
Request for proposals for the Hawley Street property were sent out by the Land Bank in late summer of 2025, but no submissions came in.
When the former executive director Jessica Haas announced she was stepping away, the Land Bank began taking stock of how to recraft the RFP in the fall.
According to newly appointed Land Bank Executive Director Robert O’Donnell, they’re back to the drawing board to reissue a new and improved RFP for the vacant property on Hawley Street “in the coming months.”
O’Donnell said he is “optimistic” that their second attempt will generate interest.
What work has been done through Vacant Rental Program
Since the launch of the program last year the Land Bank have completed two projects through the VRP. Another 12 units are in various stages of renovations. With the latest funding announced by the state in May, they anticipate having an additional 14 units online.
O’Donnell said the organization is excited to get more projects underway.
“We have several applications still in our queue, and have been compiling a waiting list of those who have contacted us with interest,” O’Donnell said in a May 14 statement.
Kalyn Grant reports on public service issues for the Press & Sun-Bulletin, focusing on schools and community impact. Have a story to share? Follow her on Instagram @KalynCarmen and on Facebook under Kalyn Kearney. Get in touch at KCGrant@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Vacant Rental Program gains momentum even as a key property waits
Reporting by Kalyn Grant, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
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