T
he Adams administration's key housing proposal, "City of Yes for Housing Opportunity," has cleared a major hurdle by winning approval from the City Planning Commission. The plan aims to create up to 109,000 new homes citywide by relaxing zoning regulations and increasing density in various neighborhoods. However, it now faces opposition from some members of the City Council, particularly those representing outer-borough communities.

    The proposal would eliminate parking requirements for new housing, provide a zoning bonus for affordable units, and allow for more residential density near transit hubs. Developers have secured changes to the plan, including maintaining a 3.5-square-foot bonus for every square foot of affordable housing built and continuing to allow offsite affordable housing in certain districts.

    Despite opposition from some community boards and City Council members, supporters argue that the proposal is necessary to address the city's housing crisis. The plan has been endorsed by four out of five borough presidents, but Staten Island's Vito Fossella voted against it. Commissioners Leah Goodridge and Alfred Cerrullo also opposed the proposal, citing concerns about affordability and a "one-size-fits-all" approach.

    The City Council will now review the proposal, which could be influenced by ongoing investigations into the Adams administration and calls for Mayor Eric Adams to resign. The mayor has urged Council members to "vote with their conscience," but some opponents are pushing for changes that would reduce the number of new homes added under the plan.