Mold has long been a pressing concern for residents of the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA).

However, a new initiative called Mold Busters aims to tackle this persistent issue head-on.

Mold growth is a significant challenge for NYCHA workers, who are now implementing targeted strategies through the Mold Busters program.

“We look at what is the root cause and what would cause these conditions, and based on that we can come up with a remediation plan to address this,” explained Elena Tenchikova, from the Office of Mold Assessment and Remediation.

The struggle against mold has been discovered in the Tompkins Houses in Bed-Stuy, where issues began surfacing in 2022.

Two years later, residents are witnessing a rebuild.

“We have upgraded the plumbing and the ventilation system,” Tenchikova noted.

Despite efforts to combat mold, many residents are left wondering why the problem persists.

In response to the common concern, NYCHA acknowledged that while it has made progress, significant infrastructural improvements and investments are still necessary. Deteriorating plumbing lines, like those found in many of their buildings, create a breeding ground for mold.

Shonette, a resident of the Tompkins Houses, expressed her frustrations.

“I feel like my concerns were being ignored. Something I waited on for months was finally addressed, and now we're in a different location waiting for that to be fixed,” she said.

NYCHA sources reported that over 800 mold inspections have been completed from January to September this year. While these numbers show progress, some residents are still concerned, who are hoping that the Mold Busters program will lead to long-term relief.

As repairs continue, NYCHA reminds tenants that they're committed to meeting the needs of all New Yorkers living in public housing. Residents who have mold concerns are encouraged to visit the NYCHA website or contact the Mold and Leak Ombudsperson Call Center (OCC) For Residents living in Nycha Owned Buildings directly.