First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued

The New York City Department of Preservation and Housing recently issued its first request for proposals under its Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.

The RFP is for a new mixed-use affordable housing project on city-owned 49,397 sf site in Brooklyn. Using modular construction will allow the department to reduce construction costs, get housing built faster, and respond more quickly to demographic shifts, officials contend.

The use of modular construction for affordable housing initiatives has gained support in recent years, despite a lack of modular manufacturers in the New York metro area and logistical challenges that come with delivering and storing large modular pieces.

Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen said the goal of the program was to master mid-rise, modular multifamily development to help meet the city’s increased affordable housing goals, according to a report in The Real Deal. The city aims to create or preserve 300,000 residential units by 2026.