On May 3, over 200 Upper West Side residents convened at Riverside Park to oppose the NYC Department of City Planning’s controversial rezoning proposal for their neighborhood.

The NYC Department of City Planning unveiled a rezoning proposal in April 2024 targeting several blocks between West 72nd and West 85th Streets from Riverside Drive to Amsterdam Avenue. The plan aims to increase residential density by upzoning primarily low-rise areas to encourage new development and address housing shortages. However, this proposal has ignited pushback from residents in the Upper West Side, who worry about the impact on neighborhood character.

Community organizations such as the West Side Neighborhood Alliance and local civic groups organized the May 3 rally at Riverside Park. More than 200 attendees voiced concerns about displacement risks, loss of affordable housing units, and the potential strain on local infrastructure and schools. Speakers included State Senator Brad Hoylman and City Council Member Gale Brewer, both of whom expressed skepticism about the proposed rezoning’s benefits for longtime residents.

Local residents emphasized the Upper West Side’s unique historic architecture and cultural identity, fearing new developments would replace beloved brownstones and low-rise apartments with high-rise towers. Many attendees urged the Department of City Planning to pursue a more community-oriented approach that balances growth with preservation. The agency has scheduled multiple public hearings through June to gather further input before finalizing the plan.

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What areas does the proposed rezoning plan cover?

The rezoning plan covers roughly the area between West 72nd and West 85th Streets from Riverside Drive to Amsterdam Avenue on the Upper West Side.

Why are residents opposing the rezoning plan?

Residents oppose the plan because they fear it will lead to displacement, loss of affordable housing, and alter the historic character of the neighborhood with increased high-rise development.

What is the NYC Department of City Planning’s next step?

The Department of City Planning will hold public hearings through June 2024 to collect community feedback before making any final decisions about the rezoning proposal.

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