Adams Pitches Zoning Changes to Streamline Housing Growth and Boost Sustainability
Mitchell Korbey, chair of Herrick's Land Use & Zoning practice, spoke to the Commercial Observer about Mayor Eric Adams' push for more relaxed zoning laws. The article stated, "Adams’ plan entails allowing businesses to expand operations either in or adjacent to their current footprint without having to adjust their needs to zoning laws, as well as giving property owners the ability to make sustainability upgrades." It also referenced Local Law 97, the New York City law taking effect in 2024 that "will require that buildings spanning 25,000 square feet or more reduce carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030, and by 80 percent by 2050."
The article noted that Mitch "believes the proposal has potential to flood the housing market with new units as unused office space can be repurposed into small living spaces."
He explained, "We are awaiting details on the administration’s plan to allow for electric vehicle charging – although we anticipate that it will include placing charging stations in the public way and likely franchise agreements with providers[.]" He added, "By relaxing code and zoning requirements, we can 'recycle' older commercial buildings – allowing for a new life for these older structures while fulfilling a tremendous need of housing for all types."
Read the full article in the Commercial Observer here. Access may require a subscription.