New Sandy Recovery Program, Build It Back, Helps Those Still Recovering

Mayor Michael Bloomberg unveiled the latest city recovery plan, NYC Build it Back. The program is designed to assist homeowners, landlords and tenants affected by the devastation of Superstorm Sandy. Build it Back costs $648 million and is financed by the initial round of the federal funding in the form of Community Development Block Grants.

According to the press release announcing the new measure, there are four pathways to help Superstorm Sandy victims return to sustainable homes:

• Repair: A NYC Build it Back professional contractor can help eligible participants whose homes require minor to moderate repairs. Registrants also have the option of selecting their own contractor within Federal and program guidelines.

• Rebuild: If a home is substantially damaged and needs to be rebuilt, qualifying participants can choose a home model that is designed specifically for their community, uses the best available resiliency standards and is designed by a NYC Build it Back developer. Alternatively, registrants can choose their own architect and contractor to develop and build their homes within Federal and program guidelines.

• Reimbursement: The City can also help participants recover eligible out-of-pocket costs for minor repairs already made to their homes that satisfy all Department of Housing and Urban Development and other requirements.

• Acquisition: Some owners may want to voluntarily sell their homes and in some cases, the City will be able to work with communities to strategically redevelop these properties in a smarter, more resilient way. Housing Recovery Specialists will be able to explain these options.

For more information or to register, people are encouraged to call 311 or to visit nyc.gov.