In a recent government meeting, the Planning Commission discussed the approval of a significant adaptive reuse project at 527 Oak Street, led by Interfaith Works. The Commission has declared its intent to act as the lead agency for the environmental review process, a move that received unanimous support from board members.

Interfaith Works, a local organization dedicated to promoting racial and religious equity, presented its vision for the property, which aims to address the housing crisis in Syracuse. The project will include two handicap-accessible family units on the ground floor for temporary stays of four to six weeks, catering to families with mobility challenges. Additionally, the upper floors will feature four studio or one-bedroom units intended for longer-term rentals of 12 to 18 months.

Olive Sapoma, Vice President and COO of Interfaith Works, emphasized the importance of this project in providing dignified housing for refugees and individuals in need. The organization has a long-standing commitment to the community, having resettled over 1,000 individuals in the past year alone.

Zach Bloomer from Echo Architects outlined the preservation and adaptation strategies for the property, highlighting the project's potential to revitalize the neighborhood and create a welcoming environment for new residents. The Commission's approval of the lead agency status marks a crucial step forward for this initiative, which aims to enhance community support and address pressing housing needs in the area.