T
he Witkoff Group's plan to sell parking spots at 150 Charles Street has sparked a dispute with condo owners. Developer Alex Witkoff claims this is a solution to the West Village's "huge parking problem" that will worsen over time, offering savvy buyers a rare opportunity to own a prime spot in the area. However, some residents are pushing back against the $500,000 price tag and proposed $500 monthly maintenance fee with annual escalations.

    A group of owners has offered to buy 25-30 spaces for $10 million, or around $330,000-$400,000 per spot, citing concerns about garage operation, security issues, and expenses that could impact property values. They also requested limits on fee increases, transfer of title to the condo board after 90% of spaces are sold, and exclusive access to 90% of spaces for condo owners.

    The valet-attended garage, completed in 2015, includes 92 up-for-sale spots previously available to renters. A spokesperson for Witkoff claims many spots have already been sold, but declined to share the exact number. The developer filed an amendment outlining parking details in 2021, but residents raised concerns earlier this year as the rental expiration approached.

    The $500,000 asking price is steep, but not unprecedented in Manhattan where monthly parking costs are among the highest in the country. Another downtown building once marketed spots for $1 million each.