City Planning Commission Approves Zoning Change to Boost Affordable Housing in Queens

### What’s happening

– The New York City Planning Commission approved a zoning map amendment for affordable housing.
– The amendment was proposed by a developer for a site in Queens.
– It takes effect immediately to facilitate redevelopment.

### Why it matters

– Local low and moderate-income families will benefit from increased affordable housing options.
– This initiative addresses New York City’s ongoing housing crisis and rising living costs.

### Key details

– The zoning amendment changes from R6B to R7XD24, enabling more residential units.
– The Mixed-Income Housing (MIH) option requires 25% of residential area to be income-restricted.
– The development will include a 13-story mixed-use building with 119 units, 30 income-restricted.
– Monthly rents for income-restricted units will range from $1,220 to $2,920 depending on unit size.
– Community facility space of 17,700 square feet will be operated by Common Point Queens.
– The median household income in the district is approximately $69,500 annually.

The City Planning Commission recently convened to discuss a zoning map amendment that aims to facilitate the development of affordable housing in Queens. Proposed by a developer, the amendment transitions the site from an R6B to an R7XD24 zoning district. This shift allows for increased height and density, which the commission believes is crucial for meeting the demand for affordable housing.

Under the Mixed-Income Housing (MIH) program, 25% of the total residential floor area in the new development must be set aside for income-restricted units. Specifically, this includes 30 out of 119 planned units, targeting households earning at or around 60% of the area median income (AMI). These provisions aim to ensure that local low- and moderate-income families have access to affordable living options amidst rising costs.

The estimated monthly rents for these income-restricted units will range from $1,220 for a studio to $2,920 for a two-bedroom apartment. Given that the median household income in the area stands at approximately $69,500, the affordability of these monthly rents is critical for the local community. Authorities expressed confidence in these measures as a necessary response to the ongoing housing affordability crisis in New York City.

The development will also integrate significant community amenities, including 17,700 square feet of community facility space operated by Common Point Queens. The inclusion of such facilities aims to provide enhanced services to residents and further contributes to the overall sustainability of the neighborhood.

As the City Planning Commission moves forward, it remains focused on integrating community feedback to address the pressing need for affordable housing and prevent potential displacement of current residents. This approach reflects an ongoing commitment to balancing development with the needs of existing communities while navigating New York City’s complex housing challenges.

Source: https://youtu.be/Th96jnM1wGk