Community Access, a non-profit organization that expands opportunities for people living with mental health concerns to recover from trauma and discrimination through affordable housing, training, advocacy, and healing-focused services, joined co-developer Mega Group and state and local officials today to celebrate the groundbreaking of 521 East Tremont Avenue. This new $162 million development in the East Tremont/Crotona neighborhood of the Bronx is co-developed by Mega Group, Community Healthcare Network, and Community Access.
The 213-unit development will provide a mix of affordable and supportive housing for income-eligible individuals and families, and individuals living with mental health concerns who have experienced homelessness. Ground-floor retail will also contribute to neighborhood vitality.
As part of the development, Community Healthcare Network’s Tremont Health Center will triple in size with 12 exam rooms and three dental suites in new, state-of-the-art medical space. CHN is a not-for-profit network of 14 federally qualified health centers offering affordable, integrated primary care in underserved communities in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. CHN, which turns no patient away, is maintaining Tremont health care services during construction at 1880 Bathgate Avenue.
Residents will have access to comprehensive, on-site support services, including counseling, group programming, crisis intervention, and connections to community-based health and mental health care. Additional services will support education, employment, and long-term well-being—reflecting Community Access’ holistic, person-centered approach.
The building is designed to foster community, wellness, and opportunity, and will include a range of amenities, including a community room, fitness center, computer and library space, laundry facilities, and bike storage.
“Community Access is proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of 521 East Tremont Avenue. We’re excited to work with our co-developers, Mega Group and Community Healthcare Network to bring 213 new affordable and supported homes to this neighborhood,” said Cal Hedigan, CEO of Community Access. “We are particularly excited to have a state-of-the- art health center as part of the development – this will be a boon to residents and to the neighborhood in general. At Community Access, we believe housing is a human right. Access to a stable, affordable home creates the conditions for people to pursue their goals, strengthen community connections, and move forward with dignity. This development represents an important step toward a more just and inclusive New York City.”
