Mangano to Sell County Road to AvalonBay for Mitchel Field Development

The Nassau Legislatire Thursday approved the sale of a county road to AvalonBay for the veterans' housing development in East Garden City, adjacent to Nassau Community College.

Proceeds of the sale will fund improvements to the Mitchel Field property.

“My administration is providing affordable housing for our nation’s heroes and their families right here in Nassau County, because even one homeless veteran is one too many,” County Executive Ed Mangano said. “No veteran should be left homeless. It is my hope that our program will serve as a national model that recognizes veterans for their selfless service and dedication to our nation.”  

Hempstead Town's board approved AvalonBay's zoning application in early 2010, clearing the way for construction. The Mitchel Field development includes eight homes designated as part of the Homes for Our Troops program, which will be specially adapted for severely wounded veterans.

The existing "General's Row" officer houses are being renovated to ensure preservation. The homes were built for officers serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

According to Mangano, the county took ownership of the property on April 1, 2011 from the United States Navy. Renovations are underway and the search is on for veterans and their families to occupy the two-story, three-bedroom duplex units.

The property features 18 single-family homes and 42 duplex units and was originally constructed to house active service members at the Mitchel Field Air Base. Although the air base closed it will continue to house veterans and their families.

Mangano said the 42 duplex units will be available to veterans and their families and the 18 single-family homes will be renovated for use by active military personnel and their families. 

Currently, eight renovated homes are occupied. Proceeds from the sale of the road will allow for the renovation of 10 more homes.

The county is working closely with the Automated Housing Referral Network, to locate occupants for these homes.

To obtain vouchers for these homes, veterans can contact Mary Kelly at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at 631-241-6182 and active military should contact the Nassau County Office of Real Estate Services at 516-571-4207.

To find out additional benefits you may be entitled to from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, New York State and Nassau County, contact the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency at 516-572-6560 or visit http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/Veterans.