New Jersey Redevelopment Authority Announces Completion of First Affordable Housing Project Funded by the Affordable Housing Support Initiative

• Posted on: 03/4/2025

First-Ever Project Features 16 Affordable Housing Units in Newark’s West Ward

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA) is pleased to announce the completion of its first project, 566-572 13th Avenue, funded by the NJRA Affordable Housing Support Initiative. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, February 20, marking the official opening of Unity, a three-story, 19,602-square-foot multifamily development featuring 16 affordable two-bedroom units in Newark’s West Ward.

“The completion of 566-572 13th Avenue marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to expanding affordable housing opportunities in New Jersey,” said Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez, who also serves as the chairperson of the NJRA board. “Through the NJRA’s Affordable Housing Support Initiative and the commitment of the Murphy Administration, we are making meaningful strides toward ensuring that families have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes. This project is a testament to our shared vision of building stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

Unity offers contemporary, high-quality living spaces equipped with a range of modern amenities. Each unit includes individually controlled central air conditioning and heating, a gas range, washer and dryer, and a full kitchen with a built-in dishwasher and microwave. The building also includes a 560-square-foot shared community space for residents, featuring a media room with Wi-Fi, a conference/meeting room, and the flexibility to serve as a multi-purpose gallery space.

The project was financed through a $4.5 million loan from the NJRA Affordable Housing Support Initiative, which is funded by a $25 million allocation from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The NJRA has directed these funds to support affordable housing projects in NJRA-eligible municipalities, addressing the growing need for affordable housing in urban areas.

“The completion of Unity is a testament to the NJRA’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in urban communities,” said Leslie A. Anderson, NJRA President and CEO. “This project also honors Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver’s legacy and efforts to address the affordable housing crisis and improve the lives of residents across New Jersey.”

Unity was developed by 566-572 13th Ave LLC, a development entity co-owned by Ricardo Sosa and Dr. Ahmed Abdel Megid. Ricardo Sosa, the founder and president of Gonsosa Development and Construction, a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) firm based in Roselle Park, NJ, brings his expertise in development and construction to the project. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Megid, a board-certified rheumatologist and founder of Rheumatology Center of New Jersey, Incorporated, is the other 50% owner of 566-572 13th Ave LLC.

About the NJRA
NJRA is a comprehensive resource center that focuses on improving the quality of life by creating value in New Jersey's urban communities. The Authority invests financial and technical resources into redevelopment projects and plans that will create a positive impact in eligible communities and ensures projects are urban-focused, neighborhood-based, and investment-driven. Visit the NJRA online at www.njra.us.

About DCA
DCA offers a wide range of programs and services, including local government management and finance, affordable housing production, fire safety, building safety, community planning and development, disaster recovery and mitigation, historic preservation, and information privacy.

For more information about DCA, visit https://nj.gov/dca/ or follow the Department on social media: