The Haber Houses are located in Brooklyn’s Coney Island neighborhood, spanning West 24th Street, Mermaid Avenue, and Surf Avenue. Built in 1960, the three NYCHA developments are home to roughly 600 residents.
Most notably, Haber Houses were the first NYCHA developments designed exclusively for seniors, providing affordable, subsidized housing in a secure and supportive environment.
Named after Samuel Haber, a former NYCHA board member, the developments were thoughtfully designed with seniors in mind, featuring wider hallways, elevators, and communal spaces that encourage quiet and reflection.
Despite these careful designs, Haber Houses have faced common public housing challenges, including broken elevators, heating issues, and aging infrastructure.
Nevertheless, the close-knit community has fostered strong solidarity among residents. Tenants have organized to advocate for improved services and ensure that the needs of older residents are met.
Haber Houses exemplify how public housing for a vulnerable population can be maintained with dignity and a sense of community. While challenges remain, the residents’ effort and commitment have created a warm, vibrant environment that defines the development’s character.
