Williamsburg Resident Supports Monitor Point Project

Affordable housing, community benefits, and environmental protections make this development a win-win, says local advocate.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 2:23pm

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Debra Benders, president of the Cooper Park Residents Council in Williamsburg, New York, is voicing her support for the Monitor Point project. The development would bring 1,150 new homes to Greenpoint, with 40% being permanently affordable units. Benders says the project represents the kind of development the community has been asking for - one that benefits residents, protects the environment, and invests in affordability amid rising rents and displacement.

Why it matters

As rents continue to skyrocket in Williamsburg and Greenpoint, longtime residents like Benders are being priced out of the communities they've called home for generations. The Monitor Point project offers an opportunity to create more deeply affordable housing and community amenities that can help stem displacement.

The details

The Monitor Point proposal includes 1,150 new homes, with 40% being permanently affordable units for families earning 40-60% of the area median income. The project would also restore and connect waterfront park space, cover the cost to relocate and modernize an outdated MTA facility, and include $15 million in environmental remediation and shoreline stabilization.

  • The Monitor Point project was proposed in January 2026.

The players

Debra Benders

President of the Cooper Park Residents Council in Williamsburg, New York, and a longtime resident advocating for affordable housing and community benefits.

Monitor Point

A proposed development project in Greenpoint, New York that would bring 1,150 new homes, with 40% being permanently affordable units.

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What they’re saying

“This project represents what we've been asking for: development that benefits the community, protects our environment, and invests in affordability.”

— Debra Benders, President, Cooper Park Residents Council (citylimits.org)

What’s next

The Monitor Point project will need to go through the city's land use review process before being approved for construction.

The takeaway

As rents continue to rise in New York City, affordable housing developments like Monitor Point that incorporate community benefits, environmental protections, and deep affordability are crucial to preventing displacement of longtime residents.