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How the affordable housing industry is tackling the housing crisis
A Q&A with John Bohrer-Yardley, Affordable Housing Practice Group Co-Chair at Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP
John Bohrer-Yardley, Co-Chair of Affordable Housing Practice Group, Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Woods Oviatt Gilman
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What do you find most rewarding about your career in affordable housing development?
One of the first deals I worked on after law school was for a new affordable housing project in the small city I grew up in in Central New York. This was a special opportunity because I witnessed firsthand how quality affordable housing can rejuvenate an entire community. It showcased how just a single new housing development can create not only sorely needed new housing but also catalyze new business opportunities along the Main Street corridor and really boost civic pride. Seeing this blessing repeated deal-over-deal all across the state throughout the years is what I find most rewarding and what motivates me most.
How would you describe the need for affordable housing in New York?
The need for affordable housing in New York is both significant and growing. Rising construction costs, limited inventory and economic pressures have made it harder for working families and essential employees to live near where they work. This is no longer just a downstate issue – it affects communities across the state and has real implications for workforce stability and economic growth.
What role do you play in meeting the need for affordable housing?
We help bring projects to fruition by guiding developers and municipalities through the legal, regulatory and financing complexities that affordable housing requires. These developments involve many stakeholders and layers of approval, and our role is to create a clear path forward so projects can be completed efficiently and responsibly.
What’s on your agenda in 2026?
In 2026, our focus is on supporting projects that expand housing access while adapting to evolving regulations and market conditions. We’re working on mixed-income developments, redevelopment initiatives and public-private collaborations that can help move well-planned projects from concept to completion more predictably.
What will it take to make meaningful progress on affordable housing in the coming years?
Meaningful progress will require strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. Streamlined approvals, thoughtful use of incentives and early coordination among municipalities, developers and community stakeholders can significantly improve project feasibility. When policy goals align with practical development realities, projects can move forward more efficiently and deliver lasting community impact.