“Building a real recovery for our city requires forward-thinking investments that prioritize equitable growth, particularly in affluent neighborhoods that have not historically been asked to provide their fair share of New York City’s growth. The Gowanus Neighborhood Plan passed by the City Council today represents a positive step toward that vision. It will create thousands of units of affordable housing, new open space, critical investments in schools and transit, and much more. It is also expected to increase racial diversity in the area, which will help integrate local schools. Perhaps most importantly, it will finally deliver for NYCHA residents after years of disinvestment and neglect. In my ULURP recommendation released in August, I stressed the need for the City to ensure full funding for the urgently-needed capital repairs the two public housing developments in the area: Gowanus Houses and Wyckoff Gardens. I am pleased to see that the Plan includes $200 million toward capital improvements, thanks in large part to our advocacy around the issue. These investments will be made in direct consultation with members of the community, including NYCHA residents and tenant leaders, to ensure the City is living up to its commitments. I thank Council Members Stephen Levin and Brad Lander for their tireless efforts to ensure the plan reflected the needs and wishes of the community. This Plan should serve as a model for fair, equitable rezonings in our city going forward.”
