The New Haven Land Bank (NHLB) is a mission-driven nonprofit that reclaims abandoned, blighted, and tax-delinquent properties across the city and returns them to productive, community-centered use. Our efforts target six key neighborhoods—The Hill, West River, Dwight, Newhallville, Dixwell, and Fair Haven—to support inclusive, equitable development in areas most impacted by disinvestment.

Revitalizing New Haven Property by Property

We identify and acquire properties that pose barriers to neighborhood health and prosperity—vacant lots, foreclosed homes, abandoned buildings—and redevelop them in collaboration with local government, nonprofits, small businesses, and residents. These sites are then returned to the market or community for purposes that include:

• Affordable housing for low- and moderate-income (LMI) households
• Homeownership opportunities
• Mixed-use and commercial revitalization
• Public infrastructure and green space
• Neighborhood stabilization and economic development

All acquisitions and dispositions are guided by transparent, board-approved policies that ensure alignment with community needs and public benefit.

Building Local Wealth and Opportunity

NHLB prioritizes working with contractors, vendors, and developers based in or employing residents of New Haven, fostering inclusive economic growth and expanding job opportunities.

Expanding Access to Homeownership

Through a special LMI Purchaser Program, we help qualified buyers access affordable homes, often rehabilitated by the NHLB or its partners. Buyers commit to living in the home as a principal residence and, in return, receive favorable terms and support such as educational resources, renovation assistance, and long-term affordability protections.

Transparent and Accountable

Our operations are built on principles of public transparency, community engagement, and responsible stewardship. We maintain a publicly accessible property inventory and ensure that all acquisitions and sales align with New Haven’s broader neighborhood plans.

Sustainable and Strategic

By combining community partnerships, strategic property reuse, and thoughtful land-banking, NHLB ensures that each property disposition provides long-term value—whether through housing affordability, neighborhood revitalization, or economic inclusion.