⁣621 Water Street is a red-brick Renaissance style building that originally served as Gouverner Hospital. Constructed in stages beginning in 1897, it features unusual curved walls intended to help prevent the accumulation of dirt and germs, and wrap around balconies that provided access to fresh air for tuberculosis patients.⁣ ​​⁣ ​​The building became outdated and was abandoned in the 1960s. It remained vacant and under threat of demolition until 1991, when it was then purchased and rehabilitated by non-profit Community Access thanks to support from HPD. In 1994, it re-opened as Gouverneur Court, an affordable assisted living residence that continues to serve over 120 vulnerable New Yorkers!⁣

These photos from 1991 and 1993 by HPD photographer Larry Racioppo capture it before and during renovation. ​​