News Release: 12/18/2024

Poughkeepsie, NY (December 18, 2024) – In 2018, Hudson River Housing acquired the historic
Poughkeepsie Trolley Barn. The building, entrusted to Hudson River Housing by its previous owner, was
envisioned as a redeveloped space for arts-related purposes. Since then, Hudson River Housing has
secured various government and private funding sources, investing approximately $1.7 million to
stabilize the property and prepare it for dynamic use, as realized by The Art Effect. Despite these efforts
and nearly five years of collaboration, the funding needed to fully achieve the expansive vision for the
space remains out of reach.

“Hudson River Housing was thrilled when The Art Effect chose to center its activities and operations at
the Trolley Barn,” said Christa Hines, Chief Executive Officer of Hudson River Housing. “This was a
milestone in the economic revitalization of Poughkeepsie’s Middle Main neighborhood, an effort we’ve
participated in for nearly 15 years. We deeply respect The Art Effect’s work to empower young people in
Poughkeepsie and across Dutchess County, as well as the organization’s significant contribution to the
downtown community.”

However, after extensive financial analysis, rising maintenance costs and the inability to secure the
remaining redevelopment funding, Hudson River Housing was forced to make the difficult decision to
put the building up for sale. “This decision was not made lightly,” Hines continued. “We are profoundly
saddened that the vision of the Trolley Barn as a vibrant hub for youth and community activity could not
be fully realized. Recognizing the significant impact on The Art Effect and the broader community, we
made this decision with deep empathy and a firm belief in its necessity given the circumstances.”
Hudson River Housing remains committed to the revitalization of Poughkeepsie and hopes that the
future of the Trolley Barn will bring new possibilities for its use as a community asset.

About Hudson River Housing
Hudson River Housing has been a cornerstone of the Hudson Valley community for over 40
years, committed to providing safe, affordable housing and supportive services for individuals
and families. From emergency shelters to homeownership initiatives, HRH fosters stability,
inclusivity, and growth for everyone in the region.

Hudson River Housing (HRH) has substantial experience developing and managing affordable housing in
the community. HRH was created in 1982 to address the emerging homeless problem in Dutchess
County, and is now a large, multi-service provider of housing and other services to a wide range of
underserved populations. The expertise of Hudson River Housing is increasingly relied upon to inform
local planning related to housing, community development and homelessness. Since its formation,
Hudson River Housing has developed 40 affordable homeownership opportunities, over 600 housing
units and 9 commercial spaces. For more information, please call (845) 454-5176 or visit
www.hudsonriverhousing.org.