Rezoning and Development Approval in Manhattan

CHALLENGE

The project site for the construction of a 53,548 square foot, 60 unit mixed-use nine-story building in Manhattan was extremely challenged due to its narrow width and proximity to the Amtrak rail line. The development required not only rezoning but also special permits and text amendments to the Zoning Resolution. The task was to find innovative solutions to address these challenges, including permitting residences on the site, allowing the building to cantilever over the rail line, and modifying bulk requirements.

RESULTS

We oversaw the entire rezoning process, including presenting at key meetings with the Department of City Planning, the local NYC Councilmember, and the local Community Board, in order to design a development that would not only be beneficial to the client but also to the surrounding neighborhood and the city itself. After certification from the NYC Planning Commission, the application was presented to the local Community Board, the Manhattan Borough President, who issued a favorable recommendation, and the City Planning Commission and various committees of the City Council. The result was a unanimous approval of the rezoning.