How new housing can work

To the editor,

Mayor Bill de Blasio has proposed citywide zoning changes to make it easier to build affording housing and senior housing (“Planners float new zoning proposal” July 2).  The changes are producing an outcry citywide, including here in Riverdale where building density and the proliferation of community facilities are very valid concerns. To win my support, the changes would need to be paired with more tangible benefits for our community. More housing production is not reason enough to support these changes. Rather, new buildings containing “affordable” housing should only be permitted to exceed existing density limits when they (1) are located on major commercial streets rather than quiet residential ones; (2) meet standards for good design (the new buildings in our community on the whole detract rather than add to neighborhood character); and (3) provide financial benefits for nearby public open spaces. There is a need for new housing in New York City. But I reject the idea that it cannot be paired with benefits to the existing community.  

Two planning processes are underway in Riverdale that may address the possibility of more middle-income housing. First, the North Riverdale Merchant and Business Association has won a state grant to propose design improvements along portions of Riverdale Avenue, Mosholu Avenue and Broadway. In the process of designing a stronger business district, this planning work may identify underutilized development sites that can be converted to middle-income housing consistent with existing zoning. Second, the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park are advocating for full implementation of the new “Master Plan” for Van Cortlandt Park, which may create opportunities to link new housing development to funding for the park. (I am involved with both projects.) Approval of the mayor’s affordable housing zoning changes in Riverdale, particularly those intended to facilitate community facilities of any kind, should await the conclusion of these two planning processes.  

Christopher Rizzo

Land use and environmental attorney