The state of New Jersey broke ground on a new affordable housing development that may help victims of Superstorm Sandy.

The storm took a large toll on New Jersey's rental market. Along with the damage, the thousands of displaced homeowners quickly needed shelter, flooding the market.

This is the third phase of the Warren G. Alexander housing complex in Orange. There will be 42 new units. Nearly 2,000 others are scheduled to open statewide by the fall.

About a fourth of the $12 million project will come from Sandy recovery money, a plan that is not without some controversy. However, Sandy victims will get first priority for housing.

Essex County Assemblywoman Sheila Oliver says the increased development in Orange has driven gangs and drugs out and helped families move in. She says that stabilized housing leads to jobs and tax collection for the state.

Information about the availability of such housing can be found at the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency's .