A 118-unit affordable housing building will soon be built where an empty lot now sits.

The empty lot, located at 182nd Street and Washington Avenue, is home to cats that are surrounded by piles of garbage and unwanted furniture. Some residents feel that the new addition to their neighborhood is a step in the right direction.

?It?ll bring more positive people to the neighborhood and make the economic base a little more sound,? said Darryl Williams.

The state?s Office of Mental Health has allocated 30 of the units for people who are mentally disabled or have special needs. Those individuals are encouraged to apply for housing through the Office of Mental Health.

In 2009, there will be a lottery for residents interested in living in the remaining units.

The project is being funded by the Department of Housing and Preservation Development and the state?s House Finance Agency. Construction is set to begin in January.