In a city as densely populated as New York City, zoning laws make a big difference in determining how much housing is available and where. One area where rezoning is being considered is right here in the Bronx.
A plan to rezone the area that includes Morris Park and Parkchester would result in approximately 6,000 additional apartments. It’s also predicted to bring some 10,000 new jobs to the area. New Metro-North stations are already planned for the area for 2027.
Housing advocates say the plan doesn’t go far enough
New York housing advocates are saying that the rezoning plan, which would be Mayor Eric Adams’ first since he took office, doesn’t provide enough new housing. They want to increase the area that would be covered. An official with the group Open New York says it’s “far too narrow to meet this moment.”
There’s been a push, led by Gov. Kathy Hochul, to build more housing in the areas around rail stations. The Open New York official says, “The mayor has been talking and thinking about housing, he’s said he supports transit-oriented development, so this is a really good opportunity for the city to put its money where its mouth is….” Part of this area has been “downzoned” in the past to allow only single-family homes and duplexes.
The plan is scheduled for public review later this year. That review will likely last for months.
As noted at the top, zoning laws are important in a city with as many people, businesses and services as New York has. When looking for a new home or any kind of real estate, it’s important to consider how various neighborhoods are zoned so that you have a better idea of what they will look like in the future. Having legal guidance is always wise for such a significant transaction.