A look at the new housing for Barrier Free Living on 2nd Street

Construction recently wrapped up at the new state-of-the-art facility for Barrier Free Living at 270 E. Second St. between Avenue C and Avenue D... as workers removed the sidewalk bridge and surounding fencing...

The 12-story new building with a twisting façade will be called "Freedom Village." 

Barrier Free Living works with survivors of domestic violence with disabilities. The new complex will include 74 affordable and supportive apartments for homeless adults in need of services and for seniors transitioning out of nursing homes. 

Per the architects behind the project (JCJ Architecture): "Seeking to change the perception and mindset of what a supportive living facility ought to look and feel like, the design reaches beyond the typical typology associated with 'shelters' by redefining the aesthetics." 

Gov. Hochul's office funded $6.9 million for the project in July 2022. Funding for related services and rent support will come from the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative. 

Foundation work for the 65,000-square-foot facility started on the site in the summer of 2023. 

Workers demolished BFL's previous structure — a four-story timber-frame former schoolhouse — here in 2020. 

The building is anticipated to open later this year.

H/T EVG reader Patty Rat!