The historic Harlem River Houses was the first purpose-built, federally funded public housing development in New York City and an experimental project of the New Deal-era Public Works Administration. Completed in 1937, the complex was built specifically for African American families at a time when housing, including public housing, was racially segregated. Harlem River was designed as a beacon of what public housing could be, incorporating the highest planning standards and the latest technological innovations of the time - lush courtyards and playgrounds, electric refrigerators, modern sanitation, public art and sculpture, and amenity spaces such as a daycare, library and health clinic.

Today, through the collaboration of NYCHA, Settlement Housing Fund, West Harlem Group Assistance, L+M Development and a host of other partners, Harlem River Houses has been restored to its original glory. Renovations totaling $275 million were recently completed, including the electrification of heating and cooling, the removal of all lead-based paint, the restoration of playgrounds and landscaping, and the renovation of all apartments with new kitchens, bathrooms, floors, lighting and more. A recognized national landmark, Harlem River Houses offers a strong testament to what is possible when there is dedicated public and private investment in high quality housing for working and middle-class people.

Tours will be led by Eliot Hetterly, Senior Project Manager at Settlement Housing Fund, and Nick Bloom, Chair and Professor at Hunter College Urban Policy and Planning Department.

The complex's exterior grounds and management office are wheelchair accessible, however the renovated first floor apartment that will be shown on the tour is not (there are approximately 5 steps up). Accessible bathrooms and water fountains are available at the start of the tour. Ticketholders with accommodation requests should contact info@ohny.org by October 13.

Please be respectful of residents while on the tour - Harlem River is their home. Do not take photographs of people without their permission.

Children are welcome accompanied by an adult. All participants, including children, must have a ticket.