T
he city is moving forward with plans to transform a 21-block industrial section of Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, with the goal of adding 4,600 new homes. The City Planning Commission has initiated the land use review process to rezone the area, which was previously limited to one- to two-story industrial and commercial buildings due to outdated zoning laws. This rezoning builds on a community-led effort launched in 2013, known as the M-Crown plan.

    The proposed rezoning is expected to lead to the construction of between 1,436 and 1,646 affordable units, depending on which Mandatory Inclusionary Housing option is selected. Local City Council members Crystal Hudson and Chi Ossé expressed support for the proposal, emphasizing the need to continue working with the community to ensure that the new development aligns with local priorities.

    The plan includes the construction of housing on four city-owned sites, including 167 apartments at 1110 Atlantic Avenue and a 200-unit affordable housing project at 457 Nostrand Avenue. The city has also committed $23.9 million in improvements to St. Andrew's Playground as part of the rezoning. The proposal will ultimately be decided by the City Council, which is expected to vote on it in the coming months.

    The Atlantic Avenue rezoning is one of several neighborhood-based rezonings targeted by Mayor Adams' administration. While some community groups have expressed concerns about the plan, local leaders see it as a crucial step towards addressing Brooklyn's dire housing shortage and promoting more equitable development in the area.