F
irst Genesis Baptist Church has launched First Genesis Development Corp. (FGDC), a nonprofit arm dedicated to revitalizing Rochester’s historic Hudson Avenue and Upper Falls Boulevard area. FGDC will construct 22 single‑family homes, funded by a $13 million mix of state and local programs, including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations.
The project partners with Rochester Management Inc. for development, Atlas Construction for building, and Passero Associates for design. The goal is to create homeownership opportunities and build generational wealth in a long‑neglected, underserved neighborhood.
While the church continues its traditional ministry, FGDC represents a new model of faith‑based economic development in Rochester. Pastor Fredrick Johnson Sr. says the initiative is “kingdom work” that transforms lives and offers the American dream of homeownership to those who otherwise could not afford it. The church’s involvement brings consistency and perseverance, qualities that foster community trust.
Rochester Management has a history of church partnerships. In 2022 it helped Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church build the Zion Hill Apartments on Dr. Samuel McCree Way. The firm’s president, Scott Procious, notes that faith‑based entities understand local needs and can mobilize resources effectively. In neighboring Buffalo, several Baptist churches have sponsored housing projects, with over half of new east‑side units involving faith‑based nonprofits.
Funding details: HCR’s Affordable Homeownership Opportunity Program contributes $4.8 million; Monroe County’s ARPA allotment adds $1.86 million; the city contributes $1.5 million from ARPA; and the Rochester City Council provides $500,000. “Investing in housing is investing in people,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello at the groundbreaking.
The 22 homes will include 11 two‑story, three‑bedroom houses with full basements and 11 ranch‑style units with two or three bedrooms. Three of the houses will be ADA‑compliant, featuring roll‑in showers, grab bars, and accessible kitchens. “This project will give 22 families the chance to own homes that might otherwise be out of reach,” said Procious.
Beyond the single‑family homes, FGDC is finalizing a second project: First Genesis Apartments, slated to begin construction in spring. The apartment complex will add 106 residential units to the neighborhood, further expanding housing options and community stability.
Johnson emphasizes that the initiative is about building families and communities, not just structures. “After years of prayer, planning, and collaboration, this project will anchor transformation for families and neighborhoods, creating generational wealth in underinvested areas,” he said.
For more information, contact First Genesis Development Corp. at [email protected] or (585) 653‑4020.
