Brooklyn City Planning Commission Discusses Controversial Rezoning for Affordable Housing

The City Planning Commission recently discussed the proposed rezoning of 441 and 467 Prospect Avenue, aiming to address concerns about housing affordability in Brooklyn. This session, held on December 16, 2024, focused on a recommendation from the Department of City Planning endorsing the development of two 13-story residential buildings with 244 apartments, including 61 income-restricted units.

Department representatives indicated the project, spearheaded by Arrowlin and Supply Company, seeks to modify the zoning map from R5B to R71, which introduces new housing opportunities in Windsor Terrace, categorized as a high-opportunity area. This amendment aims to enhance local housing supply in a neighborhood known for its limited options (Source: https://youtu.be/4DoAUh_BVOM&t=1197).

However, the meeting highlighted significant opposition from community members. Numerous residents expressed worries regarding the buildings’ height, scale, and potential strain on local infrastructure. Concerns over the affordability of the proposed units also surfaced, with some claiming that the project could exacerbate displacement issues within the community. Critics further criticized the perceived lack of community engagement in the overall planning process (Source: https://youtu.be/4DoAUh_BVOM&t=1325).

Supporters of the development argued that introducing new housing could alleviate displacement risks not just in Windsor Terrace, but also in nearby neighborhoods like Flatbush and Kensington, which have a higher susceptibility to gentrification. They pointed out that the site benefits from good access to transit and local amenities, suggesting that the development might meet the broader housing crisis affecting the city (Source: https://youtu.be/4DoAUh_BVOM&t=1325).

The commission noted that recent changes under the “City of Yes for Housing Opportunity” initiative could influence the project, with new regulations allowing the maximum height for buildings in certain districts to increase. This site’s unique characteristics, such as its proximity to public transportation and open spaces, were cited as justifications for the requested density and height modifications (Source: https://youtu.be/4DoAUh_BVOM&t=1325).

Advocates for affordable housing voiced the pressing need for accessible options, highlighting a severe shortage of deeply affordable, income-restricted units in the area. Many seniors and low-income residents reportedly struggle to find housing that meets their needs, which underlines the urgency of addressing these challenges (Source: https://youtu.be/guf7sYbd2wM&t=559).