Weisbrod Discusses the de Blasio Administration’s Affordable Housing Program, Now in Its “Toddler” Stage

At the CityLaw breakfast on August 28, 2015, Carl Weisbrod provided an update on the de Blasio Administration’s housing plan, which Weisbrod described as now in its “toddler” stage. The de Blasio program is the most ambitious of its kind in the country, and the biggest in New York since the Koch Administration.  Today, the City is managing the problems of success: continued growth and a shortage of housing.  Conversely, in the Koch era, … <Read More>


My Rules for Thee, But Not for Me: The City Destroys a City-Owned Landmark

The Castle on the Concourse is doomed. Had any other owner of a designated landmark abandoned his property to the elements like this, the Landmarks Preservation Commission would have sued him for “demolition by neglect.” But here the commission is helpless. The owner is the City of New York, and while the city fully expects owners of designated properties – private homeowners, businesses, landlords, or institutions – to adhere to standards set by the LPC, … <Read More>


HDC Identified Targets of Preservation Focus for 2015

Among its stated priorities, preservationist organization hopes to spur designation of items on Landmarks’ calendar that have been long under consideration without being brought to a vote. On February 3 2015, the Historic District Council held an event where it released its annual “Six to Celebrate,” identifying preservation priorities for the coming year. Candidates for the list are submitted by community organizations, and evaluated by HDC for historic and architectural merit, as well … <Read More>


CityLand Recognizes New York City’s Presidential History

Presidents’ Day began as a remembrance of George Washington’s birthday and has since developed into a remembrance of all who have served as President of the United States of America.  New York City has played a role in the history of many Presidents, even as the birthplace of one – Theodore Roosevelt.  In celebration of the holiday, we here at CityLand have created a list of historic places that have a connection to our Presidents.  … <Read More>


Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito Pledges NYCHA Capital Assistance in State of the City

The Council Speaker announced $250 million for NYCHA and called on Albany to match the funds.  On February 11, 2015 City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito delivered her first State of the City address at the Johnson Community Center in East Harlem.  As part of the address’ overall theme to “lift every voice”, the Speaker announced a plan to commit $225 million in capital funding for the New York City Housing Authority to improve conditions in … <Read More>


Mayor de Blasio Delivers State of the City Address

Affordable housing issues, including rent-regulation, mandatory inclusionary zoning, and more were highlighted in the speech.  On February 3, 2015 Mayor Bill de Blasio delivered his second State Of The City address from Baruch College.  The Mayor spoke at length about the affordable housing crisis facing New York City and the programs his administration has begun or will propose to address the problem.