The Adams administration is rewriting New York City’s zoning code. City of Yes for Housing Opportunity (CoY/HO) is the plan to change zoning regulations to increase the supply of housing across the City. The text is some 1,400 pages long, and nearly impossible for the layman to understand. It will affect every New York community. Because of that vast scope, City Planning often speaks about CoY/HO in generalities. They say that it will create “a little bit of housing” everywhere, but this understates the massive changes it contains.
The Department of City Planning has briefed most Community Boards and they are now in the process of voting.
Ask your Community Board and Council Member how CoY/HO will impact your neighborhood. Tell them to ask City Planning for a detailed analysis.
Development will be encouraged on green space in backyards and between buildings, which may be counter to the City’s sustainability initiatives. It will mean less light and air for residents of both new and existing buildings. There will be some incentives for affordable housing, but many more for new, larger buildings without affordable units. There will be less opportunity for public input on land use issues and new development. Will this be the New York City that we want to live in?
The Conservancy is working with zoning experts to see how CoY/HO will affect landmark-protected buildings and historic districts. We’re also concerned about how it will alter neighborhoods of older buildings that might someday become historic districts. To be clear, some of the proposals in CoY/HO are welcome, even overdue: for example, CoY/HO proposes to change zoning to encourage the conversion of existing, underused buildings. This one policy change will create housing, preserve existing buildings, and reduce environmental impacts.
But New York has never had enough housing. Experts have different views on how to address this essential issue. Some say you can build your way out of it. Some say prices will only increase as more luxury condos are built. One thing is certain: the public needs to understand the changes that CoY/HO will bring.
The City Council will hold hearings on the plan in the fall. Don’t miss your opportunity to learn more and have your voice heard.
Sincerely,
Peg Breen, President
The New York Landmarks Conservancy