A $1.5 million state grant has been awarded to the City of Rome for the demolition of abandoned housing at the former Woodhaven housing complex near the Griffiss Business Park.

Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi and Senator Joseph Griffo announced the grant today.

“This project is essential to the continued redevelopment of the Rome area.  For years, people living near the eyesores at Woodhaven have had to contend with abandoned properties that are fire and safety hazards.  These houses have been an unwelcome landmark that hurt the city’s progress.  This funding is going to make a tremendous difference in the city’s quality of life, and will also add some new, much-needed modern housing options for residents,” said Griffo.

The city also plans to use the money to re-develop the Woodhaven site and the former Wright Park Manor housing development  for new housing and potential light retail projects.

The funding comes from the State's Economic Transformation Fund to assist communities that have been affected by the closing of a state prison.

The Oneida Correctional Facility was closed by the state in 2011.

P.W. Creighton, Townsquare Media
P.W. Creighton, Townsquare Media
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