LIVINGSTON MANOR – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has selected the Catskills Community Land Trust (CCLT) as one of seven recipients of a 2026 Catskills Smart Growth grant. The funding will support the launch of CCLT’s first affordable housing development in Livingston Manor.

The grant will fund the initial phase of the project, including land acquisition, site preparation and the creation of construction drawings for a planned two-family home. This phase will bring the development to a “shovel-ready” stage, positioning CCLT to pursue additional funding to complete construction. Once built, the units will be rented at affordable rates to local workers.

CCLT is a newly formed nonprofit based in the Town of Rockland, established to address the growing need for environmentally responsible, affordable rental housing in the region. Over the past year, the organization has worked to develop solutions that support both the local workforce and the broader economy.

“Housing in our region is becoming increasingly inaccessible to the people who work for our local businesses,” said CCLT Advisor Gwen Schantz. “Our goal is to build and renovate affordable rental housing in our small towns in a way that enhances our communities while supporting economic growth and diversity.”

The first project will transform a town-owned parking lot on Meadow Street in the hamlet of Livingston Manor into a two-family home. According to CCLT Advisor Bruce Pollock, the structure will emphasize durability, sustainability and efficiency.

“The house will be designed and built to last 100 years or more,” Pollock said. “It will use a timber frame model with locally sourced materials and highly efficient insulated panels. The apartments will be comfortable, energy-efficient and centrally located, allowing residents to walk to work and nearby amenities.”

CCLT has worked closely with Town of Rockland leadership throughout the planning process. The town has been designated a Pro-Housing Community by New York State’s Office of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), reflecting its commitment to addressing housing challenges.

Linda C. Hartley, a CCLT advisor and leader of the town’s Pro-Housing Committee, emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling the housing crisis.

“This project is a strong example of how public-private partnerships can address long-standing challenges like affordable housing,” Hartley said. “By working together, we can create lasting solutions that benefit our entire community.”

CCLT plans to continue expanding its efforts, using this first development as a model for future projects across the region.