New York Construction Report staff writer
A public review process for the Jamaica Neighborhood Plan has begun. The proposal includes more than 12,000 new homes with approximately 4,000 affordable units, along with a $300 million investment in infrastructure improvements, such as sewer upgrades, enhanced transit access, and the creation of public spaces.
However, updated zoning regulations are needed to allow high-density mixed-use developments, particularly along key transit corridors.
Work will focus on creating housing, economic opportunities, and commercial space, all while maintaining the neighborhood’s character. Zoning changes will support development around Jamaica Avenue, Archer Avenue, Hillside Avenue, and other key areas, facilitating a balanced approach to growth with retail, community services, and affordable housing.
A $300 million investment in sewer upgrades and other improvements is included as well as funding for public space enhancements and streetscape improvements, aimed at creating a more vibrant, accessible environment for both new and existing residents.
The Jamaica Neighborhood Plan is the result of two years of community engagement, including public meetings and input from local stakeholders. This feedback has shaped the plan’s vision, ensuring that it meets the needs of the community while encouraging sustainable growth. The proposal now enters the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, which includes reviews by local community boards, hearings, and votes by the City Planning Commission and New York City Council.
Expected changes:
- Downtown Core: Along Jamaica Avenue and Archer Avenue, a transit-rich area served by the E, J, and Z trains, zoning would allow high-density mixed-use developments with permanently affordable housing, active ground floor retail, and community services. Further north, between Jamaica Avenue and Hillside Avenue, densities would slightly decrease.
- Transit Corridors: Along Hillside Avenue, western Jamaica Avenue, Liberty Avenue, Sutphin Boulevard, Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, and Merrick Boulevard, zoning would encourage mixed-use, mid-rise developments with locally-serving retail and community facilities.
- South Core: Located immediately to the south of Jamaica Station and the Jamaica Center – Parsons/Archer subway station, mixed-use zoning would allow new housing in this area for the first time in over 60 years. It would also encourage commercial and light manufacturing near world-class transit resources.
- Industrial Growth Area: New growth manufacturing zoning would support new employment and local businesses.
The proposal will also grow the local economy by creating over 2 million square feet of commercial and community facility space, which is anticipated to generate more than 7,000 new jobs.
