The Linden Houses, a public housing development in East New York, Brooklyn, originally built in the 1950s, recently underwent a significant retrofit. This project, spearheaded by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) in collaboration with Douglaston Development, L+M Development Partners, Dantes Partners, and SMJ Development, aims to modernize and enhance the living conditions of its residents.
Project Background
As part of NYCHA’s Permanent Affordability Commitment Together (PACT) initiative, the Linden Houses retrofit is a cornerstone of New York City’s affordable housing upgrades. The $534 million rehabilitation project focuses on comprehensive physical improvements, ensuring the longevity and sustainability of this essential housing development.
Project Details
Originally constructed in the 1950s, the Linden Houses encompass 1,586 apartments. The recent retrofit, completed in 2023, marks a significant milestone in the effort to provide updated, safe, and affordable housing. The project involved extensive renovations, including updates to ventilation systems and the installation of state-of-the-art eFlow Constant Airflow Regulators.
Stakeholders and Roles
The project was a collaborative effort with significant contributions from various stakeholders. Douglaston Development, L+M Development Partners, Dantes Partners, and SMJ Development played crucial roles in bringing this project to fruition. AMK Contracting Corp handled the installation, while Curtis + Ginsberg Architects and Nelligan White Architects provided the architectural expertise.
Technical Insights
A major highlight of the retrofit is the installation of custom fire damper solutions and 4″ Constant Airflow Regulators (CARs) at 50 CFM, mounted on custom 6”x4” plates, along with 6”x4” fire dampers in each apartment. These eFlow-CARs, supplied directly to AMK Contracting Corp, are pivotal in enhancing air quality and energy efficiency, while also contributing to fire safety within the apartments.
The introduction of eFlow Constant Airflow Regulators brings several benefits, including improved indoor air quality, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced fire safety. These regulators ensure consistent airflow, helping to maintain a healthy living environment for residents.
Conclusion
The Linden Houses retrofit is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships in addressing the need for affordable housing. This project not only preserves the affordability of these homes but also significantly improves the quality of life for its residents. As we look to the future, the Linden Houses stand as a model for similar initiatives aimed at revitalizing aging housing developments across New York City.
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Photo Credits: Courtesy of Curtis + Ginsberg Architects
Flow-CAR FACTS
eFlow-CAR is a simple solution to balancing ventilation systems. Constant Airflow Regulator is a device that automatically regulates airflows in ventilation systems to constant levels. The passive control element responds to duct pressure, and requires no electric sensors, pneumatic sensors or controls. eFlow-CARspromote high indoor air quality and energy savings.
- UL 2043 Classified
- Composed of fire resistant UL 94 ABS plastic
- Diameters offered: 3”, 4″, 5”, 6”, 8″, 10″
- Operating Pressure Range: 0.08 to 2.4 in w.g. (20-600Pa)
- Airflow settings: 15-765 CFM
- Temperature Limits: -22° to 140°F (-30° to 60°C)
- Suitable for both supply and exhaust applications
- No external power supply needed
- Field Adjustable CFM set point
- Capable of maintaining constant airflow within +- 5% for nominal airflow throughout the target operating pressure range of 0.08 to 2.4 in.
- Standard for Energy Efficient Compliance
