In need of at least $230 million for system-wide repairs, NYC libraries, which receive less than $15 million a year from the city, look to strike land deals with private developers, report Joseph Berger and Al Baker.
A relatively new practice of releasing public property assets to private developers with the caveat of preserving public services is picking up speed in NYC.
Cash-strapped public agencies, including the library, school and municipal system, are exchanging land and old buildings for new mixed-use developments that also integrate these former functions, usually on a public ground floor.
Several libraries in Brooklyn and Manhattan have already struck bargains with developers, including with major DUMBO and now Williamsburg player Two Trees, with the first Andrew Carnegie-financed library in Brooklyn slated for demolition.
Some residents object to the plans, which would upgrade ailing public service systems at no public cost, on the grounds that neighborhood landmarks would be lost to high-rise redevelopment and extended closures would make access to public services more complicated during the reconstruction process.
Planning experts, including Mitchell Moss at NYU and David Giles at the Center for an Urban Future, support the financing strategy because it would restore and upgrade public amenities across the board without raising taxes.
FULL STORY: Saving Schools and libraries by giving up the land they sit on
Beating Extreme Heat Through Community Efforts
U.S. cities don't provide residents with enough protection against heat, the deadliest weather-related killer in the world. In New York City, one organization came together to distribute ACs to neighbors in need.
Nearly Half of New York City Burdened by Pollution
Communities of color make up the majority of people harmed by pollution, as well as heat and flooding, says the study, which is New York City’s first comprehensive survey of environmental injustices.
New York City Debuts Roomier Subway Cars
The car design is used throughout Europe and Asia, but it’s a first for the U.S.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
Las Vegas Golf Course to Become Over 1,000 Units of Affordable Housing
The project is part of an initiative to build affordable housing on shuttered golf courses.
Planning for True Transportation Affordability: Beyond Common Misconceptions
Transportation affordability is important but often misunderstood, resulting in misguided solutions. New research helps identify ways to provide true affordability for economic freedom, opportunity and happiness.
California Governor Vows to Protect EV Credits
If the federal government eliminates the tax credit for electric vehicles, the governor will need legislative support to restart a state-level incentive program.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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City of Culver City
Skagit Transit
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners