City Council provides update on controversial 'Just Home' project

The proposal is supposed to bring housing to Jacobi Hospital's campus, specifically for formerly incarcerated inmates from Rikers Island with medical conditions.

Marissa Santorelli

Dec 7, 2024, 12:18 AM

Updated 16 days ago

Share:

A controversial housing project in Pelham Parkway for former inmates has been at a standstill for months. The "Just Home" project was introduced in 2022 by the Fortune Society.
The proposal is supposed to bring housing to Jacobi Hospital's campus, specifically for formerly incarcerated inmates from Rikers Island with medical conditions.
"What they need is stable housing where they can receive the care that they need to live independently and to live a life of contribution," said Stanley Richards, CEO of the Fortune Society.
Residents rallied in July against the proposal. Resident Rochelle Mandina said she lives 500 feet from the proposed building. She said she would move out of the area if it passed.
"I won't be able to stay here if I know my family is going to be in danger," she said.
The project has been at a standstill for months after the proposal was set to head to the City Council.
"Nobody knows what's happening. It's all concerning to us because we don't know which way it's going to go," said Mandina.
News 12 spoke with Council Member Kristy Marmorato, who has openly opposed the project, about its status.
"There is no timeline for this. It is sitting at the Speaker's desk and as of now,” she said.
News 12 reached out to City Council representatives and they confirmed those claims.
A City Council spokesperson issued a statement to News 12 about the situation.
“Stable housing for all New Yorkers is an essential component to making our city and communities safer. Like with all land use applications, the Council will evaluate this proposal on its merits, considering input and testimony from members of the public and all stakeholders. There is no scheduled date yet for the initial hearing.”