42-unit supportive housing facility completed in Ogdensburg
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced completion of Knox Street Building 2, a $10.6 million Ogdensburg project developed by S.T.E.P. by S.T.E.P., Inc., for people who have experienced homelessness.
By Caleb Mercer, ClickNNY North Country Desk
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced the completion of Knox Street Building 2 in Ogdensburg, a $10.6 million project creating 42 units of permanent supportive housing for people who have experienced homelessness.
The three-story facility was developed by S.T.E.P. by S.T.E.P., Inc., an Ogdensburg nonprofit that has provided affordable and supportive housing since 1997. The state’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program provided $9.7 million for construction. Additional financing included a $750,000 Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Affordable Housing Program grant and a $147,000 contribution from S.T.E.P. by S.T.E.P., Inc.
Operating support is provided through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative, administered by OTDA. Services include on-site assistance from S.T.E.P. and support from other community agencies, including case management, a mental health drop-in center, harm reduction programs, nutritional education, independent-living instruction, volunteer and vocational opportunities, and help enrolling in benefits.
Knox Street Building 2 is on the same property as Lincoln School Apartments, a former elementary school renovated by S.T.E.P. into 20 permanent supportive housing units. The site also has operated a seasonal Code Blue warming center, which S.T.E.P. says is the only such center in St. Lawrence County.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday with OTDA representatives and local officials. S.T.E.P. Board President Barbara Briggs Ward and OTDA Project Manager Kate Jackett cut the ribbon.
The project broke ground July 10, 2025. It was one of six projects supported through a $45 million state funding round that created 227 permanent supportive housing units statewide. A 2024 tour of the Ogdensburg site brought together Jefferson and St. Lawrence county officials, OTDA staff, and local leaders from Watertown and Jefferson County to discuss housing needs.
OTDA Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said the facility will provide permanent housing in St. Lawrence County along with services intended to help residents remain stably housed and live independently in the community.
Reported by ClickNNY and reviewed by an editor before publication.
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