Zoning is a complicated feat, but when used correctly can help the city to grow properly. In the early 20th century, New York City wanted to control the places where towers would be constructed. As a result, the city was the first in the nation to adopt a zoning ordinance. Zoning is still a prominent aspect of the present and future of the city.
There is still much debate about how and when zoning laws should be used. As Commissioner Burden said, “we are creating the conditions for growth where the city can handle it, while preserving the character of the neighborhoods.” There is a delicate balance between downzoning, protecting the character of the neighborhood, and upzoning, expanding for future development in the city. New York City is constantly growing, and even though we would like to protect our communities, we must also build up to address the housing shortage for middle and low-income people.
The De Blasio administration is working on just this. They are rezoning New York City to make housing more accessible. In January, there was a meeting held in East New York to explain the details of rezoning. By 2030, they hope to build 7,250 new homes in two district neighborhoods, Ocean Hill west of Broadway Junction, and the main portion of East New York and Cypress Hills to the east. Off-street parking requirements for low-income housing will also be reformed. Additionally, 1.26 million square feet of new commercial space will be created to expand the city’s economy.
The struggle between preserving neighborhoods and expanding has been debated since the time of Moses and Jacobs. Every city administration, though, does their best to use zoning to help shape the city into a place for diversity, growth, and economic strength.
Works Cited:
Smith, Stephen. “City Planning Unveils Full East New York Rezoning Details: 7,250 New Homes Expected By 2030.” New York Yimby. N.p., 05 Feb. 2015. Web. 10 Mar. 2015.
Larson, Scott. “The Armature for Development.” Building like Moses with Jacobs in Mind: Contemporary Planning in New York City. Philadelphia: Temple UP, 2013. 77-96. Print.
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