AM Braunstein, left, and CM Paladino, right, speak with rally-goers at the Bellcourt press conference.
Over the last several months, concerns have poured in from residents about Mayor Eric Adams Administration’s one-size-fits-all “City of Yes” zoning proposal. As the New York City Council vote draws closer, locals have become aware of the proposal’s components directly threatening the existence of many low-density neighborhoods across Eastern Queens. On Monday, September 16, a coalition of eight elected officials spanning Eastern and Southeastern Queens united against this proposal and dutifully amplified our community’s voice at a press conference they co-hosted in Bellcourt at 212th Street and 38th Avenue in Bayside. They included Assembly Members Sam Berger, Ed Braunstein, Alicia Hyndman, Nily Rozic, and David Weprin; Council Members Linda Lee, and Vickie Paladino; and State Senator Toby A. Stavisky. A statement of opposition was read by a representative for Congress Member Tom Suozzi, while Congress Member Grace Meng penned a memorandum of disapproval.
A sizeable cluster of over 100 residents successfully highlighted inherent flaws of the initiative. The city references its plan to would build “a little more housing in every neighborhood” by reducing zoning restrictions as modest, citizens differ. As the city grapples with its housing crisis, the Adams Administration deems raising each neighborhood’s density a required contingent for sustainability that will not alter the unique characters of each region. Outraged suburban homeowners consider the broad stroke approach an assault on their lifestyle, namely a reclassification allowing for the construction of three to five-story apartment buildings at many corners, and nearly every Bayside home having an 800-square-unit mini house constructed on their property all bringing parking to a mere nonexistence. Bellcourt falls within a half mile of public transportation and was chosen as a prime example where changes brought to recommended Transit-Oriented Development zones would adversely affected homeowners in a predetermined decision.
On September 25, the City Planning Commission voted on the plan setting in motion a 50-day modification period in advance of a vote before the entire Council. Previously, 12 Queens community boards nixed the concept, two western borough boards accepted its provisions, and those urban areas have already begun to experience a housing spurt.
Of note, parking provisions are not included within City of Yes that urges for high-rises near subways and authorizes the addition of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to existing properties in the form of basement, attic, or garage housing accommodations. Even the area’s congressional representatives have expressed opposition to the plan.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
Photo credit Israel Peskowitz
