Van Dyke II Houses is located in Brooklyn’s Brownsville neighborhood, bounded by Powell Street, Livonia, and Dumont Avenue. Built in 1969 as an extension of the original Van Dyke I complex, the development consists of two 12-story buildings with nearly 500 apartments.
Van Dyke II reflected NYCHA’s late-1960s shift toward more modern, lower-density design approaches, offering a smaller-scale, more modern alternative to earlier high-rise developments.
Like much of NYCHA, however, the complex has faced long-term challenges tied to underfunding, deferred maintenance and derelict infrastructure.
Even so, Van Dyke II has been marked by strong resident engagement and community outreach. Tenant leadership and neighborhood activism have played a central role in advocating for better conditions and accountability.
In recent years, NYCHA rehabilitated Van Dyke II through the Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) program, bringing apartment renovations, improved safety measures, and expanded social services to the site.
As with much of Brownsville’s public housing, Van Dyke II has fostered a deep sense of pride and resilience. Community organizing, youth programming, and neighborhood activities continue to help residents navigate social and economic pressures.
Though smaller and less visible than some of the city’s larger NYCHA developments, Van Dyke II remains a vital part of Brownsville—a place where families put down roots and work toward building better futures.
