CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. — The Tunnel to Towers Veterans Village project on Harlem Road in Cheektowaga is set to begin soon, providing much-needed housing for homeless veterans in Western New York. The Cheektowaga Town Supervisor, Brian Nowak, shared that the site plan and environmental review were approved in August, with developers receiving approval for permits in late January.

“The demolition of the existing property on Harlem Road will start in March, with construction set to follow in early summer,” said Nowak. “The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has been working tirelessly to address veteran homelessness across the country, and this project is part of that national effort that began in 2023.”

The development will feature 90 units designed specifically to help veterans transition from homelessness into stable housing. The project aims to provide long-term, affordable housing solutions for those who have served the country but are struggling to find a place to live.

“What they’re proposing here in Cheektowaga and in other locations has already made a significant difference, helping 6,000 veterans get housing and maintain it. They’re looking to build on this success with the 90 units they’re planning here,” said Nowak. "This is a great opportunity to make a direct, positive impact on the lives of veterans who need it most."

Vice President of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Gavin Naples, emphasized the importance of the project and the foundation’s commitment to addressing the nationwide issue of veteran homelessness. "We’re confident that this site, which has been vacant for many years, will be the perfect location for this housing project. It’s a well-positioned area, close to a school and with access to a two-lane state road," said Naples. "We’re excited about what this means for the community and, most importantly, for the veterans who will benefit from it."

The construction of the veterans’ housing is expected to be completed by early 2026. The project not only promises to bring much-needed homes to veterans but also revitalizes a long-empty space, making a positive contribution to the local community and economy.

In addition to providing housing, the project will offer supportive services for veterans, helping them adjust to civilian life. This includes job training, health services, and community-building activities designed to help veterans thrive in their new homes. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s approach is centered around providing more than just a roof over their heads, but an entire support system to help veterans reintegrate and succeed.

With the national conversation around veteran homelessness gaining more traction, projects like the Tunnel to Towers Veterans Village are proving to be key in addressing this crisis. Nowak expressed his hope that this project would inspire further action to help veterans across the country, stating, "This project is an important step in the right direction, and we’re proud to support it in Cheektowaga. We believe this is just the beginning of larger efforts to support our veterans."

Originally reported by Chelsea Swift in MSN.