Originally launched in 1951 as affordable "suburban" rental apartments, Bryant Gardens in White Plains, NY was converted thirty years later to a cooperative under one of the first non-eviction plans in Westchester County.

Then and Now.
In 1981, shareholders owned 112 of the 409 apartments; today the number occupied by shareholders is 356 and growing. In 1981, a one-bedroom apartment sold for $28,000; this year it sold for $185,000. And the two-bedroom apartment that was $36,000 in 1981, recently sold for over $285,000.

Sensible Policies.
In the decades following the conversion to cooperative housing, as the number of shareholders grew, the Board of Directors developed strong policies to safeguard the quality of life at Bryant Gardens, including practical House Rules and parking protocols, with enforcement by private security.

Recent Board initiatives include a no-smoking agreement for new buyers, revamped traffic and parking controls, including speed humps and designated visitor parking areas, and a Going Green program of conservation and renewal to reduce overall energy use at Bryant Gardens by 20% over the next two years.

Upgrades and Improvements.
Beginning in 1986 with an upgrade of the electrical system from 30-amp fusebox service to modern 60-amp 208-volt breaker panels, Bryant Gardens has implemented a number of major improvements. These include boiler replacement, new building roofs, replacement of garage doors and building windows, installation of private storage rooms, laundry room modernization, parking lot and lighting improvements, and the construction of new playground.

Latest Renovations.
In 2005, a two-year, nearly $2 million project was begun to renovate the hallways and courtyards. The hallways got new entrances, outgoing mailboxes, carpeting, high-tech lighting, and air-conditioning. The courtyards renovations included paver walkways, planters, and new signage.

Today, Bryant Gardens continues to enjoy a well-deserved reputation for affordability, but residents and Realtors alike are more likely to focus on its award-winning grounds, luxurious air-conditioned hallways, meticulously maintained buildings, and innovative programs. And its abundant free parking.

In the News
The Annual Bryant Gardens Holiday Lighting was a lively and convivial success, with over 400 revelers greeting Santa Claus, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, and joining the Board of Directors and the Mayor of White Plains in Christmas Tree and Chanukah Menorah lightings. (see Slideshow)

Warmed by hot cider and nourished by donut treats, Bryant Gardeners and their White Plains neighbors danced to the music of Hart and Hart, cavorted with Santa, who arrived in a cinnamon-red dune buggy and distributed Santa sombreros and giant candy canes, and posed for keepsake photos with Mayor Joseph Delfino.