Planning Department proposed application of inclusionary housing text to Queens neighborhoods. On May 24, 2006, the Planning Commission unanimously approved a rezoning impacting 134 blocks of the Maspeth and Woodside neighborhoods. The rezoned area is comprised mostly of one- and two-family homes as well as a few walk-up and elevator apartment buildings, and includes higher density development along Queens Boulevard. A steady increase in out-of-scale residential development triggered the City’s action.

Density would be decreased along primarily residential blocks and increased along portions of Queens Boulevard. On 63 blocks, the rezoning would limit development to one- or two-family homes with 24-35 foot height limits (R4-1, R4B). The plan would downzone other areas to permit mid-sized residential development, such as three-story row houses and small apartment houses (R5, R5B, R6). (read more…)