The former Deputy Director of Economic and Housing Development (EHD) for the city of Newark has landed a job in Mayor Adams’ administration in NYC. Al-Tariq Shabazz is now the Director of Fair Housing Policy and Investments at the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

A graduate of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Shabazz spent several years in various city departments, most notably Economic and Housing Development under the leadership of Baye Adofo-Wilson. During his time in Newark he also led the Office of Affordability and Sustainable Housing and was instrumental in the drafting and passage of one of EHD’s most important pieces of legislation, Newark’s Inclusionary Zoning ordinance. While leading the Office of Affordability and Sustainable Housing Shabazz also oversaw the creation and chaired Newark’s Equitable Growth Advisory Commission which is charged with ensuring that Newark’s redevelopment activity promotes inclusiveness, rather than inequality, and is a model for fair housing in New Jersey’s cities.

In his new role Shabazz will lead HPD’s Fair Housing Policy team which provides guidance and insight on high-priority policy initiatives, advancing solutions that further the agency’s mission. His team will also spearhead policymaking and analysis to advance the City of New York’s fair housing objectives and commitment to implement and comply with the goals of the Federal Housing Act.