New York Construction Report staff writer
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is inviting developers to transform an underutilized MTA-owned lot at 1119 Pacific St. in Crown Heights into a residential development featuring approximately 300 new housing units. The project is made possible by the 2025 Atlantic Avenue Mixed-Use District (AAMUP) rezoning and aims to provide new homes while improving transit access and public spaces in the area.
The offering includes both the lot and air rights above the nearby Franklin Avenue Shuttle, creating a larger development footprint than the site alone would allow. The property was previously part of the Atlantic Avenue Cable Shop, which is being relocated to a modernized facility in East New York and will be redeveloped as affordable housing through a collaborative agreement with the City of New York.
“Since taking office, I have said that the only way to address the housing crisis is to build more housing,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “By leveraging underutilized, state-owned land and making improvements to critical infrastructure we will deliver the housing that New Yorkers need and deserve. I remain committed in my efforts to make New York more affordable, more livable and a great place to live, work and raise a family for generations to come.”
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber highlighted the project’s transit-oriented benefits. “It’s a fact that transit-oriented development drives job and housing growth across the region. The Pacific Street project checks all the boxes — unbeatable proximity to transit in one of Brooklyn’s hottest neighborhoods — and we’re proud to partner with the Governor to get the best use out of this property.”
The redevelopment will include at least 75 permanently affordable units under New York City’s Mandatory Inclusionary Housing program. The MTA is also encouraging proposals that integrate transit accessibility improvements and a public art installation along the Franklin Shuttle wall. Funds from the sale will go directly back into the MTA’s Capital Program to support system-wide infrastructure improvements.
“Addressing New York’s housing shortage and strengthening our economy go hand in hand,” said Hope Knight. “By unlocking underutilized sites for new housing, we are creating opportunities for families, supporting transit-oriented growth, and helping communities thrive.”
The redevelopment aligns with Executive Order 30, which directs state agencies to activate underutilized state-owned sites for housing, reflecting Governor Hochul’s broader agenda to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and foster stronger, more inclusive neighborhoods. Proposals for the Pacific Street site are due in May.
“The redevelopment of the MTA lot in Brooklyn into 300 units of housing, including at least 75 affordable units, is representative of Governor Hochul’s continuing work to address the housing crisis,” said RuthAnne Visnauskas. “Thank you to the MTA, New York City officials and all our partners for working together to make this transformative project a reality.”
MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer added, “This project represents a major investment in Brooklyn’s future — delivering much-needed housing and transit accessibility improvements to the local community. And every dollar from this sale is going right back into the system, meaning all riders will feel the impact.”
The project is expected to bring new housing, transit improvements, and public amenities to Crown Heights while advancing the state’s commitment to affordability and livable neighborhoods.
