Some proposed changes to the city zoning text are making their way through the Uniform Land Use Review Process, originating from a somewhat unlikely source. Rather than stemming from community outcries surrounding overdevelopment, or a city-backed plan to spur economic activity, these changes come from the New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
...some of the changes would result in increased building heights and density, especially in areas where buildings that don't match current zoning code already exist.
For instance, one proposal calls for allowing 100 percent lot coverage in R6 through R10 districts to create a continuous street wall. Meanwhile, another proposed amendment would change the regulations that limits lots less than 18 feet wide to one- and two-family dwellings, allowing instead for multi-family homes.
AIA-Backed Zoning Changes Come as Shock
A fourth proposal, however, deals with side yards and open space. Currently, in R3-1, R3-2, R4, and R5 districts, side yard requirements are waived if a building on the adjacent lot abuts the lot line. Under the AIA's proposal, side yard requirements could also be waived if doing so doesn't adversely affect a neighborhood's essential character or impede future development.
...many community boards just recently learned of the proposals. Under normal ULURP practices, both community boards and borough presidents have their own review period, but since the proposals have citywide ramifications, those review periods are lumped into one.