Empire Boulevard Zoning Change Proposal Draws Mixed Reactions in Crown Heights

The New York City Planning Commission reviewed a proposed zoning change for the Empire Boulevard area, which could have significant implications for housing and community dynamics in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The proposal aims to facilitate a 13-story mixed-use development at 7399 Empire Boulevard, which would include 261 housing units—of which 78 would be income-restricted—and approximately 62,200 square feet of commercial space.

During the February 18 review session, key concerns highlighted by community members included the potential overshadowing effects on local public facilities, particularly Jackie Robinson Public School 375. The Brooklyn Borough President’s office recommended approving the application with conditions aimed at mitigating shadow impacts and advocating for a broader plan to enhance housing and streetscape improvements along Empire Boulevard (Source: https://youtu.be/WmOOtRidnUw&t=4990).

Stakeholders also expressed strong desires for a corridor-wide study to assess the overall impacts of zoning changes. Historically, the Empire Boulevard area has faced criticism for inadequate planning that fails to meet the diverse needs of local residents and businesses. Many stakeholders agreed that this segment of Brooklyn urgently requires a comprehensive plan that ensures development does not compromise existing community resources (Source: https://youtu.be/WmOOtRidnUw&t=5492).

The proposal’s layout includes retail space for a full-service grocery store and provisions for 190 parking spaces—92 devoted to residential uses and 98 for commercial operations. However, the community board preferred a more commercial-focused development with lower residential density, advocating that if residential units must be included, the income thresholds should target families earning less than 40% of the area’s median income (Source: https://youtu.be/WmOOtRidnUw&t=4904).

Testimony during the meeting indicated that residents are wary of setting precedents for future developments along Empire Boulevard. Many expressed concerns that a shift in zoning could lead to gentrification, increasing socio-economic divides and displacing long-term residents. Previous reports have illustrated a similar pattern in Brooklyn, indicating that without sufficient safeguards, new developments could accelerate displacement in an already vulnerable community (Source: https://getlocalpost.com/2024/12/17/city-planning-commission-tackles-housing-crisis-amid-gentrification-concerns/).

Overall, officials recognized that an appropriate balance must be struck between new housing developments and the preservation of community integrity. The commission aims to incorporate public feedback to ensure the ongoing zoning changes reflect the needs and aspirations of local communities, while promoting sustainable growth (Source: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/planning/about/commission-meetings.page).