Pro-Housing Designation Opens New Doors for Funding and Growth

In an era when access to attainable, high-quality housing is one of New York’s most pressing challenges, the Village of Fairport is taking bold steps forward. The Village has earned the Pro-Housing Community designation from the New York State Department of State, recognizing its leadership in promoting smart, inclusive housing policies that strengthen the local economy and support residents at every stage of life.

This designation places Fairport among a select group of forward-thinking communities across the state committed to increasing housing supply, reducing barriers to development, and planning for long-term sustainability.

“This designation is a testament to the Village’s proactive approach to planning and our commitment to keeping Fairport a vibrant, welcoming, and livable community for all,” said Mayor Julie Domaratz. “We’re proud to be recognized as part of the solution to New York’s housing needs.”

Putting Vision into Action

To qualify for this recognition, the Village of Fairport made key pledges to:

• Promote Diverse Housing Options for families, seniors, workers, and individuals across income levels;
• Streamline Zoning and Permitting processes to support responsible housing growth;
• Encourage Sustainable, Transit-Oriented Development with walkability and environmental stewardship in mind;
• Engage the Community to ensure transparency and inclusivity in housing decisions;
• Align with State and Regional Housing Goals to foster economic opportunity and quality of life.

Bryan White, Village Manager, emphasized the broader importance of this step: “Earning this recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team. When we remove barriers to housing, we support local businesses, keep families together, and welcome the next generation of Fairport residents.”

Fairport’s ‘Complete Community’ Approach

“At OCED, our focus is on building a complete community – a place where residents can live, work, and thrive at every stage of life,” said Johnna McCooey, Executive Director of the Fairport Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED). “This designation affirms our mission and expands the tools we have to create a more equitable, diverse, and resilient Fairport. We envision a village where a young couple, a small business owner, and a retired teacher can all live on the same block.”

The designation increases Fairport’s eligibility for state grants, technical assistance, and infrastructure funding to accelerate projects that enhance walkability, transportation access, and neighborhood development.

What Is a Pro-Housing Community?

The Pro-Housing Communities Program, launched by the New York State Department of State, recognizes municipalities that are actively removing barriers to housing creation and implementing policies that support affordability, equity, and growth. Designated communities must demonstrate a strong track record of planning reform, inclusive development, and alignment with statewide housing goals.

Learn More: https://hcr.ny.gov/phc