Mayor’s Zoning Reform Plan “City of Yes” Passes NYC Council with Controversy
The plan, which had been under intense scrutiny for months, was slightly modified after the City Planning Commission approved it on Nov. 21. Originally projected to produce 100,000 new housing units over the next 15 years, the plan now expects to yield 80,000 units. The administration also committed $5 billion in funding, aimed at supporting the City Council’s own housing initiative, “City for All.”
Queens Council Members Express Strong Opposition
Several Queens Council Members, including Robert Holden, Joann Ariola, James Gennaro, Linda Lee, Vickie Paladino, Lynn Schulman, and Sandra Ung, voted against the plan, citing concerns over its potential to encourage overdevelopment and strain local infrastructure.
Community Boards’ Stance
Queens Community Board 5, which covers neighborhoods such as Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, and Glendale, voted overwhelmingly in opposition to the ‘City of Yes’ on June 12. Similarly, Queens Community Board 7, which represents Bay Terrace, College Point, Beechhurst, Flushing, Malba, Queensboro Hill, Whitestone, and Willets Point, voted almost unanimously against the plan in a meeting on June 24.
Key Concerns
Main areas of concern in the ‘City of Yes’ plan surrounded Accessory Dwelling Units, Small and Shared Housing, Transit Oriented Development, and the lifting of parking mandates. The character of their communities being altered is a common issue among many Queens residents.
Conclusion
While the plan aims to provide much-needed affordable housing, it has faced fierce opposition from several Queens Council Members, Community Boards, and residents. The true impact of the plan will likely unfold in the coming years as new developments begin to take shape across the city. As the city continues to grapple with its housing crisis, it remains to be seen whether the “City of Yes” will be a solution or a source of contention for many New Yorkers.
FAQs
Q: What is the “City of Yes” plan?
A: The “City of Yes” plan is a zoning reform plan proposed by Mayor Eric Adams to address the city’s housing crisis by allowing for more density and flexibility in zoning regulations.
Q: What are the main concerns about the plan?
A: Main concerns surround the potential for overdevelopment, strain on local infrastructure, and the alteration of community character, particularly in Queens.
Q: How did the City Council vote on the plan?
A: The City Council voted 31-20 in favor of the plan, with several Queens Council Members voting against it.
Q: What is the next step for the plan?
A: The plan will now move forward, with new developments expected to take shape across the city in the coming years. The true impact of the plan will be closely monitored and evaluated by residents, community leaders, and city officials.
