NYC Mayor Eric Adams Says Yes to City Real Estate Development, but...

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Eric Adams Says Yes to City Real Estate Development — If Only the Council Could Agree

https://www.thecity.nyc/2022/6/1/231...opment-council

A day after developers dropped plans for an ambitious Harlem real estate project rather than face defeat in the City Council, Mayor Eric Adams proposed sweeping changes to city zoning rules aiming to spur more housing and jobs — changes that will require a cautious Council’s approval.

In remarks Wednesday morning to the Association for a Better New York, a network of the city’s movers and shakers, Adams touted a “City of Yes,” where local officials and constituents will embrace development rather than fight it.

“We want New Yorkers to stay here, put down roots and raise families. We want to continue welcoming immigrants and young people seeking opportunity,” said Adams. “We’re looking to change up the rules and allow a wider range of housing types and sizes to accommodate all kinds of households across the city.”

The mayor’s office summarized three concepts for amendments to the city’s zoning code, which sets ground rules for real estate development. One would be intended to spur economic growth, another to encourage more housing, and the last to facilitate “carbon neutral” public works such as energy storage.

Adams also spoke of broader reforms to encourage needed development, from electric-car charging stations to converting empty office space into housing, or help a restaurant expand without going through bureaucratic zoning changes.

His proposal would additionally remove the final remnants of New York City’s restrictive “cabaret law,” which limits dancing to certain authorized nightlife venues.

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“Think about the owner of a tapas bar that has live music on weekends and wants to set aside a small space for dancing, but finds that under city rules, it’s not allowed. We’re going to change that no to a yes, and let the people dance,” said Adams.

‘Zero Carbon’
Notably absent from Adams’ emailed “City of Yes” announcement was his key partner in approving any coming zoning changes: City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. Revisions to the code must go through the city Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, or ULURP, which gives the Council a decisive vote.

Full article: https://www.thecity.nyc/2022/6/1/231...opment-council

Maybe Albany can step in here if they're truly serious about affordable housing.