Construction on two long-awaited apartment developments in the city of Dunkirk is now expected to begin in March, marking a significant step forward for local housing efforts aimed at addressing a growing rental shortage.
Gabe Regan of Dunkirk Landing, LLC updated the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) this week on plans for projects on East Fourth Street and Washington Avenue. Regan Development first introduced the proposal in early 2024 following Dunkirk’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, and the plan has gradually moved through environmental and financial reviews.
On East Fourth Street, developers intend to demolish an unused portion of an existing shopping plaza to make way for a 48-unit apartment building. Plans also call for a daycare center within the complex, though an operator has not yet been secured. The apartments are designed primarily for working individuals, with a portion reserved for veterans.
The second site, located at 208-214 and 220 Washington Ave., currently contains aging commercial structures, including the former Paradis Fencing and Flag building. That complex would add 30 more residential units and replace buildings that have long shown signs of deterioration.
Regan acknowledged that progress has been delayed by state environmental requirements, particularly because of potential brownfield conditions at the Washington Avenue location. Despite the hurdles, he expressed confidence that approvals are close.
“We’re planning on March 13 as our date,” he said, explaining that is the construction closing date.
Once that milestone is reached, demolition at both locations is expected to begin immediately and occur at the same time. If the schedule holds, Regan anticipates a certificate of occupancy by Oct. 1, 2027, with the first tenants moving in a month later.
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Project costs have risen since the initial announcement. What began as a $35 million investment is now estimated at roughly $38 million due to increased construction and financing expenses.
Local officials continue to champion the developments as critical to Dunkirk’s economic future. Development Director Vince DeJoy told IDA members that the projects align with broader efforts to attract and retain workers as area employers expand.
“This project is very much needed in the city of Dunkirk as companies such as Wells ramps up their employment,” DeJoy said. “There’s a lack of good, affordable, safe housing in the city of Dunkirk in terms of rentals, so this project has been a god-send.”
The Downtown Revitalization Initiative is contributing up to $1 million toward the effort, and developers are seeking additional assistance through potential Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) agreements. The IDA board approved a due-diligence resolution to begin reviewing those incentives, with a final vote expected later this year. Board members indicated no major concerns at this stage.
If completed as planned, the two complexes would add 78 modern housing units to the city, replace blighted properties, and provide new options for families, veterans, and local workers—an outcome community leaders say Dunkirk has needed for years.
Originally reported by Observer Today.
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