NJ Announces Sustainable Development/Affordable Housing Program

The New Jersey Dept. of Community Affairs (DCA) has announced a

Sustainable Development/Affordable Housing Pilot Program to promote sustainable development in the context of energy-efficient, affordable housing. This fall, DCA will solicit proposals from housing development teams to design and construct housing that meets a strict set of energy and environmental criteria, including Energy Star™ Home efficiency standards. Projects are expected to range from 5 to 50 units and can be for new development as well as reconstruction of existing buildings into housing. Developers are encouraged to team up with consultants, planners, architects, and builders with demonstrated experience in sustainable design. Grants will pay for many of the incremental improvements that are called for under the project criteria. Proposals will be evaluated by a team of sustainable design experts. The program, which is also supported by Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), is part of Governor Christine Todd Whitman’s commitment to preserve the environment by fostering smart planning. For full details contact Peggy Huchet at DCA, 609/633-6284.