Staten Island Proposal for 18-Story Development Sparks Community Debate on Housing and Amenities

Staten Island’s City Planning Commission recently reviewed a proposal for a new mixed-use development at 3759 Hamilton Avenue, which could reshape the neighborhood’s landscape. The proposed project envisions an 18-story building featuring 369 residential units, with 111 units designated as income-restricted. Additionally, the project will include 1,250 square feet of commercial space, 7,700 square feet for community use, and nearly 4,000 square feet of open space, along with 146 parking spaces.

Commission members discussed the potential benefits of this project, emphasizing its ability to address local housing shortages while enhancing community facilities. The developer, Hamilton Property Holdings LLC, is seeking a zoning map amendment from R6 to R73, along with a text amendment to establish a mandatory inclusionary housing area under option two within the Special Hillsites Preservation District. These changes aim to facilitate the development of approximately 324,000 square feet of mixed-use space that aligns with the area’s transitional needs (Source: https://youtu.be/-wBCXVqtcJA&t=693).

The site currently houses six detached homes, four of which are vacant. Questions arose during the review about future uses for the proposed community facility space, with suggestions including a potential doctor’s office, though this remains unconfirmed. Community members expressed a strong preference for more housing options, particularly focused on affordability, alongside the necessity for commercial resources that the area currently lacks. As of now, the site is about a quarter mile from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, ensuring good transit access (Source: https://youtu.be/-wBCXVqtcJA&t=349).

Concerns were echoed regarding the impact on local infrastructure as the neighborhood anticipates an influx of residents. At an earlier meeting held on January 6, 2025, residents voiced skepticism about whether existing services, especially retail and essential amenities, would adequately support the increased population density. These discussions highlighted the community’s ongoing struggle with insufficient commercial resources, as many residents pointed out the absence of grocery stores and other necessary amenities in the neighborhood (Source: https://getlocalpost.com/2025/01/06/city-planning-commission-emphasizes-community-feedback-in-development-planning-process-opportunities-for-public-input/).

Overall, as the City Planning Commission moves forward with reviewing this development, ensuring a balance between new housing and necessary community resources will be crucial. Ongoing public engagement will play a vital role in shaping the final proposals to address both housing needs and local infrastructure challenges (Source: https://getlocalpost.com/2025/11/04/residents-voice-concerns-over-infrastructure-and-density-at-city-planning-review/).