Electric Stoves for Palisade Towers Residents by 2026, Yonkers Announces

Yonkers Addresses Long-Term Gas Crisis at Palisade Towers

Residents of the 411-unit apartment complex, Palisade Towers in Yonkers, have been without gas since August 2024 after pipe corrosion was discovered during an attempt to repair a reported gas leak. The gas services were permanently shut off on August 30, 2024, as city officials worked to address the issue. This sudden disruption forced residents to rely on alternative energy sources and temporary support from local businesses.

During the initial crisis, dozens of restaurants and local businesses came together to provide food, money, and essential appliances like microwaves. Notable contributors included Stew Leonards’ grocery store, P.C. Richard and Sons, and St. Joseph’s Hospital, offering much-needed relief to those affected.

A Permanent Solution Months in the Making

The Municipal Housing Authority of Yonkers (MHACY) has long planned to transition the buildings from gas to electric power. MHACY president and CEO Wilson Kimball stated that this initiative had been in development for months before the gas leak occurred. “We've talked to Governor Hochul and the state Homes and Community Renewal office about going electric,” Kimball said in August 2024. He also mentioned discussions with county officials about the project.

Initially, MHACY aimed to finalize a contract by June 2024, with construction starting as soon as possible. However, no bids were received by the April 21 deadline after a request for proposals was posted online for a month. Bids were reopened with a May 22 deadline, and two bids were eventually received in early July.

Awarding the Contract to Touchstone Builders

Brendan McGrath, general counsel for MHACY, announced that Touchstone Builders, an Armonk-based contracting firm, was awarded the bid. The firm was chosen for presenting the best budget and plan among the two submissions. “Right now, we’re in the process of planning phase-one construction,” McGrath said. “The contractors received an award letter on July 11, and post-bid meetings are happening to negotiate the contract and work on a construction schedule.”

Phase one of the conversion will involve upgrading to new electrical distribution panels, new service wiring to each apartment, and installing new stoves and outlets. In January, Westchester County's Landlord Tenant Assistance Program provided a $4.6-million grant to fund the conversion, with an additional $11 million coming from the Community Preservation Corporation’s Climate Friendly Homes Fund.

Timeline for Completion

McGrath said MHACY is aiming to start construction on October 1, with an estimated completion date by September or October of 2026. “That right now is our goal and it seems to be on track,” he said. “Phase one will probably take about 11 months to a year if all goes well.”

Phase two of the project will include upgrading internal electrical systems in the eight-building complex, updating plumbing, HVAC, and hot water systems, among other necessary improvements.

How to Help Residents

McGrath noted that the municipal housing authority is no longer accepting direct donations from residents. However, there are still ways for people to help. “The county government has been very helpful,” McGrath said. “But we're trying to make sure that government money is being directed properly to our efforts to rehabilitate the apartments.”

Those wishing to assist can contact their local elected officials in New York state to express concern over the lack of gas and advocate for continued support. By raising awareness and encouraging action, community members can play a vital role in ensuring the success of the project and the well-being of Palisade Towers residents.