City Planning Approves Two 14-Story Affordable Buildings in the Bronx

The City Planning Commission approved the construction of 474 low-income affordable units in Longwood, Bronx. On June 7, 2017, the City Planning Commission issued a favorable report on an application from Ader Group, LLC, to facilitate the construction of two new 14-story mixed-use buildings at the intersection of Whitlock Avenue and east 165th Street in the Bronx’s Longwood neighborhood. The application requested a zoning map amendment to change the project area from an M1-1 zoning … <Read More>


City Council Reacts to Lead Paint Ruling by Court of Appeals; Hearing Next Week

City Council to have hearing on a bill to define “residency” in the City’s Lead Law in response to a decision by the Court of Appeals. In April 2016, the New York State Court of Appeals found that a landlord has no duty to remove lead paint from residences where children six-years or younger may spend time when the child does not live in the apartment. The Court found that a child spending in excess … <Read More>


Planning Commission Approves Jackson Heights Rezoning for Eight-Story Retail and Commercial Building

The City Planning Commission approved the construction of an eight-story mixed-use retail, community facility and office development in Jackson Heights. On May 24, 2017, the City Planning Commission issued a favorable report on an application from H & M LLC to facilitate the construction of a new mixed-use building with 219 accessory parking spaces at 74-04 Northern Boulevard in Queens’ Jackson Heights neighborhood. The application requested a zoning map amendment to change the project area … <Read More>


Hotel Use Ruled Unlawful

Hotel continued to operate transient use despite amendments to the Multiple Dwelling Law. The Royal Park Hotel, located at 258 West 97th St., Manhattan, operates as a transient use hotel. On July 5, 2012, Buildings issued a notice of violation to the Royal Park Hotel charging that it was operating as a transient hotel in violation of its 1964 certificate of occupancy. The 1964 certificate of occupancy classified the building as class A, a … <Read More>


Landmarks Denies Plan to Reinstate Pre-Designation Building Permit for Rooftop Addition

Despite reductions in addition’s scale and visibility, and promises to install a diorama commemorating escape of abolitionists from Draft Riots mob, Commissioners determined that any rooftop interventions were inappropriate. At its meeting on May 23, 2017, the Landmarks Preservation Commission disposed of an application for facade alterations and rear and roof additions to 339 West 29th Street in the Lamartine Place Historic District. In the 19th century, the building was home to prominent abolitionists … <Read More>