Damage Control for New York's Big Zoning Proposals

One of the nation's most ambitious efforts to upzone neighborhoods in the hope of spurring more market rate and affordable housing supply is up for debate in New York City. A lot of people don't like the plan.

1 minute read

December 5, 2015, 5:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Sally Goldenberg reports on the heavy politicking going on in New York City as the city debates the zoning measures proposed as part of Mayor Bill de Blasio's affordable housing plan. Goldenberg describes Mayor de Blasio's recent speeches and appeals as damage control in reaction to "dozens" of the city's community boards voting against the proposed zoning laws.

According to Goldenberg, "[t]he widespread opposition across community and socioeconomic lines has challenged a mayor who built his political brand on addressing inequality, and who has long preached the need for robust community input."

In response to the criticisms, Mayor de Blasio has attempted "to re-frame the debate around his central goal," according to Goldenberg: "to encourage new development, but with the mandatory inclusion of below-market-rate housing, in order to make New York a more affordable place to live."

The article includes more details on each of the proposals causing the consternation—the Mandatory Inclusionary Zoning and Zoning for Quality and Affordability programs. Planetizen has been following the zoning proposals closely, including in the links below.

Friday, December 4, 2015 in Politico New York

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