Affordable apartments open in Downtown Brooklyn, but some raise safety concerns

Located at 202 Tillary St., the building is still under construction but already drawing attention for its modern design and skyline views.

Valerie Ryan

Aug 14, 2025, 10:20 PM

Updated 7 hr ago

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A new affordable apartment building in Downtown Brooklyn is now accepting applications — but while the prices may appeal to renters, some residents are raising concerns about the neighborhood’s safety.
Located at 202 Tillary St., the building is still under construction but already drawing attention for its modern design and skyline views. Monthly rents for studios start at under $800, depending on household income.
"I mean, that’s not that bad for a studio apartment, though," said Chris Martinez, a local resident.
Prices range from less than $800 to over $3,300 a month, and nearly half of the units are reserved for NYCHA residents, local community members and city employees.
“It’s for everybody,” one local said. “You know, if you can afford an apartment, you can get in it.”
However, not everyone is sold on the location. The building sits between the Ingersoll Houses and a nearby homeless shelter, with the NYPD’s 84th Precinct just one block away.
“I’m right next to the projects and I’m right next to the shelter. I’m like, 'Why am I paying so much money for rent here?'" said Martinez.
Despite concerns, others defended the area, noting that the neighborhood has its positives.
The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) responded with the following statement:
“New York City is in a housing crisis, and the Administration and HPD are working to tackle it head-on. A couple of weeks ago, we announced an all-time record production of number of affordable rental units and a back-to-back-to-back record for connecting New Yorkers to housing through the housing lottery. We’ll continue to build a bit more housing in every corner of the city to ensure that every New Yorker has a safe, affordable place to call home.” said Matt Rauschenbach, Press Secretary at HPD.
To apply or learn more about 202 Tillary St., click here.