New York Construction Report staff writer
The New York City Planning Commission (CPC) has approved the zoning proposal “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity,” to address the city’s generational housing crisis. With a rental vacancy rate at just 1.4 percent, this proposal, pending approval from the city council, could enable the creation of up to 108,850 new homes over the next 15 years.
“‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ is mission-critical for addressing our housing crisis, and we celebrate the CPC’s vote to approve this historic zoning proposal,” said Maria Torres-Springer, deputy mayor for housing, economic development and workforce. “This initiative has garnered widespread support across the five boroughs, including endorsements from four borough presidents, nearly 20 community boards, and close to 150 organizations within the ‘Yes to Housing’ Coalition. New Yorkers from all walks of life recognize that tackling the housing crisis is the defining task of our generation.”
Key elements of the proposal:
- Universal Affordability Preference (UAP): A bonus allowing about 20 percent more housing in developments, provided that the additional homes are permanently affordable. If UAP had been enacted in 2014, it would have generated an estimated 20,000 income-restricted homes.
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Legalizing small units, like backyard cottages or converted garages, enabling homeowners to earn extra income and stay close to family.
- Transit-Oriented Development: Investing in zoning that allows three-to-five story apartment buildings near transit hubs and commercial corridors.
- Campus Development: Allowing development on large lots, including those owned by faith-based organizations, which are currently restricted by outdated regulations.
- Parking Mandates: Lifting costly and arbitrary parking requirements for new residential construction while still permitting off-street parking as needed.
- High-Density Zoning Districts: Establishing new zones that allow for increased housing density and mandatory affordable housing in high-demand areas.
- Shared Housing Models: Re-legalizing small and shared housing options with common facilities like kitchens.
- Building Conversions: Streamlining the process for converting offices and other non-residential buildings into housing.
“This proposal represents a significant step toward making our city more affordable,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. “As New York City continues to attract families, we must expand housing options to manage growth and curb rising rents. I see firsthand how current policies fail to meet the needs of many New Yorkers, particularly in the Bronx, where median incomes are around $40,000 or less. With new housing developments at historic lows and rising costs for maintenance and insurance, it’s clear that outdated zoning ordinances must be revised.”
