On October 2, the West Point Association of Graduates (WPAOG) brought together local leaders and representatives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for a meeting at Bean & Barrel Café in Highland Falls to explore federal resources that could support affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and community development throughout Highland Falls and the Town of Highlands.

Representing WPAOG, Executive Director of Strategic Investment & Partnerships Erin Helle said the discussion focused on identifying programs and resources that could help address local housing and infrastructure needs. The meeting, she added, also provided an opportunity for local leaders to discuss ongoing community priorities and establish relationships with HUD’s New York & New Jersey regional leadership.

Participants included HUD deputy Regional Administrator for New York & New Jersey Michael Browder, his senior advisor Barbara Gruson; Jerryl Bennett, USMA Class of 1982 and chairman of the HUD Veterans Affinity Group; Eric Aronson, USMA Class of 2021; Delroy Patrick, U.S. Corps of Cadets regulations and discipline officer; Village Trustees Jen Gargiulo and Peter Carroll; and Town Councilmember Nancy Sporbert.

“The meeting represents another step toward connecting Highland Falls and the Town of Highlands with regional and federal partners capable of supporting projects that strengthen the community and enhance the greater West Point area,” Helle added.

The session was productive enough that the local officials are now making plans for HUD to come back with more of their team.