PlanNYC: Downtown Brooklyn

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Downtown Brooklyn

On May 10, 2004, the City Planning Commission unanimously approved all of the actions of the Downtown Brooklyn Development Plan. On June 28, 2004, the City Council adopted this comprehensive development plan to facilitate the continued growth of Downtown Brooklyn. The plan recommends a series of zoning map and zoning text changes, new public open spaces, pedestrian and transit improvements, urban renewal, street mappings and other actions that would foster a multi-use urban environment to serve the residents, businesses, academic institutions and cultural institutions of Downtown Brooklyn and its surrounding communities. Critics of the plan are concerned that new, more upscale retailers coming to the area will drive out existing businesses.

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Opponents of Brooklyn Jail May Go To Court

Wednesday, July 02, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: General

Former Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, who served under Mayor Giuliani, has agreed to represent neighbors that are opposed to the plans to reopen the Brooklyn House of Detention should they decide to go to Court. Although many community members and leaders are opposed to the plan, the City continues to move forward and will soon pick an architect. Mastro has said that the City is violating several ordinances by not doing an official environment impact review or allowing it to be approved through the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP).

Local Leaders and Activists Fight Detention House Expansion in Downtown Brooklyn

Monday, June 23, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Politics & Government

Several local leaders and community groups are speaking out against the City’s plan to double the size of the Brooklyn House of Detention. Councilmembers David Yassky and Bill de Blasio and Comptroller William Thompson will hold a press conference on Thursday afternoon at the House of Detention to publicly express their opposition to the proposal. In addition, two community groups composed of local residents have formed and have been holding meetings to organize strategies to challenge the City. The City’s current proposal plans to construct a second building, creating space for an additional 700 beds.

Downtown Brooklyn Site Appears Ready for Construction of Tower

Friday, May 16, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: General

The site of a proposed 49-story mixed used building in downtown Brooklyn appears to be cleared and ready for construction. The developer of the site at 384-394 Bridge Street has not made any announcements or discussed specifics about the plans with the public. It has been reported that the plans include a 435,000 square foot building with 250 market rate condos, as well as office and retail space. If built to its proposed height, it may become one of Brooklyn’s tallest buildings, surpassing the Williamsburg Savings Bank building.

No Vacancies at MetroTech

Wednesday, May 07, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: General

MetroTech Center in Downtown Brooklyn has no vacant space. MaryAnne Gilmartin of Forest City Ratner Companies said that interest currently exceeded available space and noted that the types of tenants in the commercial building are shifting from large companies, typically needing at least 100,000 square feet of space, to smaller, more creative companies. She noted that this shift of tenants is representative of the type people who live in this area and tend to work for creative firms. Gilmartin also fielded some questions on the Atlantic Yards project at the real estate roundtable held in Brooklyn Heights.

Manhattan Law Firm Moves to Metrotech Building

Tuesday, May 06, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Economic Development

Forest City Ratner announced that Weil, Gotshal, a Manhattan-based law firm, will move part of its operation to the Metrotech Building in Downtown Brooklyn. The announcement came a good time for Ratner, as his Atlantic Yards project has been facing setbacks in recent weeks.

City Controller Urges Mayor to Sell Downtown Brooklyn Jail

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: General

City Controller William Thompson said in a letter to Mayor Bloomberg that the plans to reopen and double the size of the Brooklyn House of Detention could risk Downtown Brooklyn's economic revitalization. The letter also suggested that selling the site could provide the City with much-needed funds. The plan to reopen the jail with retail stores on the ground level has been controversial – many neighbors have been trying to block the proposal since 2005 and are considering filing a lawsuit. City officials argue that the reopening the jail will save the City money and bring Brooklyn defendants (now held on Rikers Island) closer to their lawyers, courts and families.

Hilton to Build New Hotels in Downtown Brooklyn

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: General

Hilton announced plans to build its first New York City hotel in Downtown Brooklyn. The Homewood Suites and the Hilton Garden Inn will occupy approximately the first 25 floors of the 38-story Oro II on Gold Street. The rest of the high-rise tower will consist of 74 residential units. While the Homewood Suites and the Hilton Garden Inn will occupy the same building, they will each have their own lobby and elevator banks. Construction is expected to begin as early as next month and the expected date of completion for the project is September 2009.

Renderings for New Downtown Brooklyn Residential Tower Released

Friday, April 04, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Housing

Developer BFC Partners have released renderings for their residential tower being built at Myrtle Avenue and Flatbush Avenue in downtown Brooklyn. The 37-story tower, which will be called the “Toren,” will be predominately residential space but will include ground floor retail and other amenities for the residents. The developer calls the design, a work by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Architects, “skyline-defining architecture.” The building, which will be LEED-certified, has multi-level roof garden and its own co-generation plant that will generate electricity and heat for the building.

Downtown Brooklyn Jail Faces Community Opposition

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

In addition to adding ground floor retail to the facility, the City has plans to double the capacity of the Brooklyn House of Detention. A group of community members, Brooklyn HOD Community Stakeholders Group, is angry that more public input was not taken before the City moved forward with their design proposals. A developer may be chosen as early as July.

New Hotel to be Developed in Downtown Brooklyn

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: General

A new hotel will be built on the corner of Tillary Street and Flatbush Avenue Extension in downtown Brooklyn. Magna Hospitality Group purchased the 4,700 square-foot site for $10.8 million to develop a Hampton Inn Hotel where the Pepper & Potter auto dealership once existed.

CUNY-Ratner Split May Not Have Been Mutual

Saturday, March 08, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: General

A memo that has recently surfaced shows that officials from the City University of New York (CUNY) initiated the termination of the deal between the school and developer Bruce Ratner to build a lab and classroom in space in addition to a residential tower in downtown Brooklyn, contrary to earlier reports that the split was mutual. In the memo, which was dated February 22 – just a few days before news of the split broke, CUNY Vice Chancellor Iris Weinshall cited the project’s rising costs that would be difficult for the developer to cover considering the downturn in the residential market. She also noted that proceeding on the project without Ratner’s involvement might expedite its completion. A spokesperson for Ratner denies that the developer’s involvement would have caused project delays.

Ratner Drops Out of Efforts for City Tech Tower

Saturday, March 01, 2008 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

Developer Forest City Ratner has pulled out of plans to develop the City Tech Tower in Downtown Brooklyn. Due to rising costs, the City University of New York and Ratner mutually decided not to go forward with the plans to build a 100 story tower that would have housed dorms and lab space for City Tech. City Tech still plans to build the tower, but it will no longer be built as a public private partnership. Some speculated that Ratner was facing financial troubles and realized that large residential towers face risk in the current market.

Plans for Downtown Brooklyn Jail Include Ground-Floor Retail

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: Economic Development

Tentative plans for the redevelopment of the Brooklyn House of Detention which included shops on the ground-floor level were revealed at a meeting of the American Institute of Design. The city plans to reopen and double the size of the jail by 2012. Efforts to put offices, hotels or apartments alongside the jail were dropped a couple of months ago due to lack of interest from developers. Community activists still oppose the reopening of the jail regardless of plans for more retail space.

Long-time Landowners Plan Brooklyn Developments

Thursday, February 07, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development

According to some real-estate estimates, the Pintchik family of Pintchik’s Hardware own profitable property and air rights that may be worth up to $100 million. The holdings are located on Flatbush Avenue at a crossing point of four Brooklyn neighborhoods: Downtown Brooklyn, Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, and Park Slope. The Pintchik’s have divided their plans into two phases. The first phase will include changing the type of retail within their buildings and adding expansions to create space for new apartments. The second phase will be a development of up to four mixed-use buildings along Flatbush throughout the next three to four years.

Current Downtown Brooklyn Residents Struggling With Transition

Monday, January 28, 2008 | Brownstoner | Topic: Economic Development

Although reports indicate that the development in downtown Brooklyn will bring an estimated 15,000 new residents into the area and generate a lively community, current residents are frustrated because the construction has forced many neighborhood stores and amenities to close. Also, business owners in the area are upset about being forced out of the area without relocation help from the government.

Downtown Brooklyn Welcomes a Wave of New Residents

Thursday, January 24, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Housing

One of the results of the major redevelopment of Downtown Brooklyn is an influx of new residents. Eleven new buildings, with 1,480 new units, have opened in the neighborhood, which had just a few hundred residents as recently as 2000. Young people seeking short commutes, lower prices and more space make up much of the new population.

Downtown Brooklyn Local Businesses Contemplate Relocation

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

As part of the push to develop large plots of land in Downtown Brooklyn, business owners and residents are feeling the burden. Since a great deal of the construction is for large plots of land taking up almost entire blocks, many shops in the immediate area being forced to close down or relocate. This is occurring on Willoughby and Bridge Streets for the development of United American Land’s 594-square-foot tower. While some community residents claim that the disappearance of local businesses is resulting in a loss of basic amenities, the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership say that the high-rises that will eventually occupy that land will provide more storefront space than ever before.

City Point Will Be Center of Downtown Brooklyn

Tuesday, January 15, 2008 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

The planned City Point project, which is shaping up to be the center point for the Downtown Brooklyn development, will be the tallest building in Downtown Brooklyn at 65 stories. The development, being built at the site of the Albee Square Mall, will also be the largest retail space in Brooklyn. Construction has already begun on the project, and is expected to be completed by 2010.

Coney Island Developer Uses New Strategy in Development Plans

Wednesday, January 02, 2008 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Joe Sitt, owner of 11 of the 15 acres that make up the Coney Island amusement district, may try to sell off his Downtown Brooklyn parking garage to secure the funds necessary to sustain a holdout over the Coney Island plans until Mayor Bloomberg leaves office. Bloomberg opposes Sitt's plan to turn Coney Island into a Las Vegas-style entertainment complex. Sitt cannot sell the garage until 2009 without approval from the City.

Talks between CUNY and Ratner Over City Tech Building Continue

Saturday, December 22, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

In 2005 CUNY selected Forest City Ratner to develop their new City Tech laboratory and classroom. Since then, the costs have increased substantially from $86 million to $307 million. In addition, as part of the original RFP put out by CUNY, the chosen developer would receive 1 million square feet of development rights on Jay and Tillary Streets. While CUNY is still negotiating with Ratner over the final costs and details of the deal, Ratner is planning to build a 700 to 1,000 foot residential building designed by Renzo Piano to be located within this area of developable land.

Construction Begins for New Hotel in Downtown Brooklyn

Thursday, December 13, 2007 | The News & Observer | Topic: Economic Development

Construction of the New Hotel Indigo began last week in Downtown Brooklyn. The 164-room luxury hotel will also have 15,000 square feet of commercial space, hoping to meet the demands of the increasing tourist and business industries. The $60 million hotel will be located on Duffield Street and is expected to be completed in 2010.

A New Skyline for Brooklyn

Sunday, December 09, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use

In the next couple of years, the Brooklyn skyline is expected to be changed drastically and the Williamsburgh Savings Bank may no longer be the tallest building in Brooklyn. Sixteen of the new towers that will be built are part of the Atlantic Yards project, including ‘Miss Brooklyn’, a Frank Gehry designed building. Some area residents are pleased with the developments talking place in Brooklyn, while others want Brooklyn to stay the way it is.

Forest City Ratner to Build “Complex” at City Tech

Wednesday, December 05, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

Forest City Ratner spokesperson Michele Forsten revealed that the developer plans to build a complex of five connecting buildings at the New York City College of Technology (City Tech). There will be two high-rise towers, currently speculated to be 65 stories high. The three other buildings will be lower and contain the college’s educational facilities. Forsten also noted that the plans currently available on the City Tech website are out of date, and do not reflect the final plan.

Students and Parents Fear Health Risks With New City Tech Tower

Monday, December 03, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Environment

Parents, students and staff affiliated with the George Westinghouse Career and Technical Education High School are raising concerns about health risks and quality of life issues following the release of renderings depicting the new City Tech Tower, which is expected to be the tallest building in Brooklyn when completed. Those concerned are worried that dust will disrupt the air quality and that noise and vibrations from constructions may have a negative impact on students. The school is located at Flatbush Avenue and Tillary Street near the construction site. There have also been talks that the school’s only open space will be sold to City Tech.

Some Concerns for Ratner’s Latest Efforts in Brooklyn

Saturday, December 01, 2007 | | Topic: Land Use

Forest City Ratner is planning to build the largest residential housing tower in the city in Downtown Brooklyn. The site, owned by the City University of New York (CUNY), will have a classroom building and a tower for residential units. There is some concern with the process by which the contract was awarded to Ratner. CUNY has yet to reveal publicly the terms of the agreement with Ratner, the Request for Proposal (RFP) that was issued for the project as well as information on the other bids that were received. Some groups are calling for transparency in the process.

City Agrees to Preserve Alleged Underground Railroad Building

Friday, November 30, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The City has settled a lawsuit and pledged not to use eminent domain on a historic house in downtown Brooklyn that some say was used as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The Economic Development Corp. (EDC) had planned to use the land for underground parking to serve the redevelopment of downtown Brooklyn, but the City said it will redraw its plans and move an access road in order to preserve the house.

Ratner Proposes Tallest Building in Brooklyn

Tuesday, November 27, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Designs have been released for the "City Tech Tower" to be built by Forest City Ratner Companies in the recently rezoned area of Downtown Brooklyn. Estimates based on the plans reveal that the building could be the tallest in Brooklyn, though Ratner maintains the estimates are incorrect. The Tower will include residential, retail and office space, and should be completed in 2011.

421-a Revisions May Impact Downtown Brooklyn Development

Thursday, November 15, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development

As the downtown area of Brooklyn is slated for economic development, some worry that changes in the 421-a tax abatement program and conditions in the credit market will hinder the future development. Projects that begin construction after June 30, 2008 will only be eligible for 421-a benefits if they are receiving government subsidy under an affordable housing program, apportion a minimum of 20% of their units as affordable, or have purchased negotiable certificates contracted prior to December 28, 2007. Former City Council member, Kenneth Fisher, fears that such revisions to the program “could be devastating to Downtown Brooklyn’s residential market.”

City Requests RFP for "Abolitionism Commemoration" in Brooklyn

Wednesday, November 14, 2007 | Curbed | Topic: Land Use

The city's Economic Development Corporation (EDC) issued an RFP (request for proposal) for a “Brooklyn Abolitionism Commemoration” that serves to honor the relationships forged in Brooklyn in the 19th Century between abolitionists. The city is currently planning on using eminent domain to create a 700-car underground parking garage and a park, to be known as Willoughby Square. Some argue that homes to be demolished for the park and garage had close historical ties to the Underground Railroad.

Infrastructure Concerns Raised Amid Downtown Brooklyn Development

Saturday, November 10, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

Following the unveiling of massive redevelopment proposals for Downtown Brooklyn, some experts are beginning to voice concerns that local infrastructure may be overwhelmed by such a quick and large development plan. The new development will include 14,000 apartments, 1,800 hotel rooms, and 1.6 million additional square feet of office space. With the addition of water, road, and subway usage, some have criticized the new plan for failing to address how current utilities can support such an increase in usage. Joe Chan, President of the Partnership for Downtown Brooklyn, which is responsible for the new plan, has conceded that problems exist but has asserted that the concerns have been taken into consideration and that ongoing problem solving will be a part of its strategy.

Plans for Downtown Brooklyn Unveiled

Saturday, November 03, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Economic Development

The Downtown Brooklyn Development Partnership unveiled renderings of the proposed redevelopment of Downtown Brooklyn that will include increased residential and commercial space as well as the new Willoughby Square Park. Initially, the Partnership hoped for roughly 4.5 million square feet of office space. The unveiled plans only include about 1.9 million square feet, however. The new focus is to create a diverse neighborhood that will be a destination at all times of the day and week. Joe Chan, President of the Partnership, predicted that in the next two weeks a developer would be chosen for part of the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) Cultural District.

Brooklyn Residents Object to Eminent Domain Plan at Public Hearing

Tuesday, October 30, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Land Use

The city’s plan to use eminent domain as part of an effort to redevelop Downtown Brooklyn faced objections at a public hearing. Residents of some of the targeted homes insist they were once used as stops on the Underground Railroad, though a recent city report could not find conclusive proof of this. The public may continue to comment on the city's use of eminent domain through Nov. 5.

Council Vote Denies Two Trees’ Plan in Cobble Hill

Saturday, October 27, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

The City Council’s Zoning Committee rejected on Tuesday Two Trees’ controversial plan to construct a building higher than the 50 ft height restriction in Cobble Hill’s Historic District. City Council Member Bill DeBlasio (D-Cobble Hill) surprised both developers and residents on Tuesday when he withdrew his support for Two Trees’ plan citing the height factor as a concern. The developer justified the plan with promises to preserve a nearby historic bank; however some residents were concerned that the violation would set a precedent and ultimately doom the area’s current historic scale. The vote by the Zoning Subcommittee means that Two Trees must now go back to City Planning and the Landmarks Commission to draw up a new proposal.

Winick Reality Group to Lease Downtown Brooklyn Developments

Friday, October 19, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

Winick Realty Group will handle the commercial leasing of four major mixed-use developments in Downtown Brooklyn, including BellTel Lofts, 395 Flatbush Ave. Extension, the former Mobil Gas station, and State Renaissance Court. Winick is seeking retailers that will fit the area's growing residential nature.

Developer Vying For a Waiver in the Zoning Code in Cobble Hill

Friday, October 19, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Land Use

Two Trees Management is attempting to use waivers in order to build a luxury apartment building that is both taller and wider than current zoning permits in the Cobble Hill neighborhood of Downtown Brooklyn. The developer has filed a “preservation-related maintenance agreement” to preserve the historic bank next to its site as a trade off for building an additional 10 feet in height. Residents and some local officials are opposed to this additional height because they believe it could set a precedent for future development. Both the Department of City Planning and the Landmarks Preservation Commission have granted approval to the proposal. The City Council is set to debate the issue at a hearing on Tuesday.

Supposed Underground Railroad Homes Remain at Issue

Wednesday, October 17, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Land Use

There is a renewed effort to try to save homes in Downtown Brooklyn that are believed by some to have been used as part of the Underground Railroad. The city withdrew eminent domain findings from one of the homes recently because they claim that a lack of oversight excluded a blight study completed in 2003 in an eminent domain hearing. A new hearing will be held on October 29th. As part of the city’s rezoning efforts in 2004 of this area, the City Council required that a study be conducted to determine if these homes were indeed historic to the Civil War. Study results came back refuting the claim about the homes. The area in question is slated to become a public plaza and an underground parking garage.

Economic Growth Expected in Downtown Brooklyn

Tuesday, October 16, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Economic Development

Downtown Brooklyn is turning into a new city center, says development corporation Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. The Partnership is anticipating commercial and residential growth from current investments derived from $9 billion in private funds and $300 million in public funds. Nearly 14,000 residential units and 1.5 million square feet of office space are expected in the area.

Eminent Domain Findings For Brooklyn Properties Withdrawn

Monday, October 08, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Land Use

Last week New York City withdrew its August eminent domain findings for an area of Downtown Brooklyn that includes properties alleged to be part of the Underground Railroad. The reason for the withdrawal is unclear, but many believe it is only temporary. A lawyer for residents and property owners suggested that the city might not have made a significant enough finding of blight. The delay means that the city must hold a new public hearing, giving residents another opportunity to negotiate the fate of the properties.

Rezoning to Blame for High Prices, say Small Businesses

Thursday, September 06, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use

A number of small business owners in Downtown Brooklyn argue that the city’s 2004 rezoning of the area is making it harder for them to afford rent in their commercial properties. Citing relocation by landlords and an increase in “luxury condos,” the owners contend that financial aid from the city is necessary for their survival. A group of business owners will testify before city officials on the issue.

Eminent Domain Likely; Historical Questions Remain

Monday, August 27, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) recently approved a motion by the city to use its eminent domain powers to clear houses in the way of a $9 billion redevelopment project in Downtown Brooklyn. The possible seizure is controversial, however, because many preservationists believe that a house on Duffield St. built in 1847 is the location of a stop on the Underground Railroad. Opponents of HPD's decision disagree with a report used by the agency to argue that no significant connection exists between the historical events and the house in question. Mayor Bloomberg is bringing a panel together to discuss the matter, as well as designating $2 million in commemorative funds.

Markowitz Recommends No Variance for Height Requirement on Cobble Hill Project

Thursday, August 23, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Housing

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz has weighed in on the Two Trees Management development project that seeks to construct an apartment building in Cobble Hill on Atlantic Avenue. Two Trees has requested waivers for residential parking requirements, rear yard and window distance requirements, and height limitation requirements. Markowitz supported the first two variances, but advised that the third request not be permitted, as it would set an unwanted precedent throughout the district. Markowitz’s recommendation was relayed to the City Planning Commission last week.

Small Business Sues Developer over Temporary Lease at Brooklyn Mall

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Finance

An owner of a small business in Downtown Brooklyn is suing developer Thor Equities for allegedly misrepresenting a month-to-month lease of retail space at The Gallery at Fulton Street. Thor sold the $120 million lease for the property in June, with plans to convert it into a multi-use high rise development with retail, office space, and residential units. The business owner charges that the temporary lease offered to him did not signal the property’s conversion into a new development.

HPD Rules in Favor of Eminent Domain in Downtown Brooklyn

Monday, August 20, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The city's Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) has concluded that the city should be allowed to use eminent domain to acquire properties in Downtown Brooklyn in order to make room for a 1-acre public plaza, to be known as Willoughby Square Park, and a parking garage. The controversial announcement was displeasing to preservationists intent on saving nearly 21 properties that they believe were involved in the Underground Railroad. HPD relied on a report by consulting firm AKRF, which declared "no conclusive evidence" linking the homes in question to the activity of the Underground Railroad.

Underground Railroad Homes at Issue in Downtown Brookyn

Friday, August 17, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The city's recent announcement that it will acquire a 1-acre site in Downtown Brooklyn known as Willoughby Square Park for the purposes of building a public plaza and parking garage below surface might require eminent domain seizure of buildings used for fugitive slaves along the Underground Railroad. The city's department of Housing and Preservation (HPD) is expected to rule on the matter of eminent domain in the next week.

Downtown Brooklyn to Get New Park

Wednesday, August 15, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

The Economic Development Corporation has begun accepting proposals for a developer to build a new park in downtown Brooklyn with underground parking. The space is to be modeled after Bryant Park, with no playing fields but plenty of public seating. The park will border the former Albee Square Mall.

Willoughby to Undergo Major Transformations

Thursday, July 26, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

In a project that could cost up to $2 billion, seven blocks of Willoughby Street are going to undergo major changes over the next few years. The project includes developing retail space, residential units and hotels.

Fulton Street Work to Begin July 23rd

Thursday, July 12, 2007 | Downtown Express | Topic: Economic Development

The plan that promises to spruce up the Fulton Street area is set to begin on July 23rd. Street closures will begin in August and continue for two and a half years. Small businesses are worried about the effects of such a closure on pedestrian use of the streets, which in turn will affect their ability to survive.

Trader Joe’s Comes to Brooklyn

Thursday, July 12, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Economic Development

Trader Joe’s announced its plan to move to Atlantic Avenue with a parade on Thursday morning. Borough President Markowitz is very supportive of the move. The store will move into what is now a Sovereign Bank owned by Two Trees Management.

New Fulton Mall Plan May Reduce Affordable Housing Units

Tuesday, June 19, 2007 | New York Observer | Topic: Housing

A coalition of developers closed on the Fulton Mall lease last week despite public opposition from community groups. Critics had pushed for additional affordable housing in the development if it was to go forward, but an updated plan might actually result in few affordable units. The new plan calls for a smaller number of total apartments, although the number of affordable units will still be at least 20% of the total. In addition, the developer has promised that the project will create 1,500 permanent jobs for the area.

Underground Railroad Houses In Danger

Sunday, June 17, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Seven houses that sit on the site slated to be redeveloped into Willoughby Square in Downtown Brooklyn are the subject of a lawsuit filed last week against the City. The houses are believed to have been a part of the Underground Railroad during the 19th century. A historical study found the evidence supporting this claim to be inconclusive; the lawsuit is challenging the study’s findings.

Willoughby West Calls For Mass Evictions

Tuesday, May 29, 2007 | | Topic: Economic Development

Numerous tenants of a block of Willoughby Street in Downtown Brooklyn were served eviction notices at the end of April, giving between 30 and 120 days to clear out of their businesses and apartments. The block, between Bridge and Duffield Streets, is slated to be razed and redeveloped as part of “Willoughby West”, a mixed-use building that is part of the grander plan – including the under-construction Sheraton Hotel and Atlantic Yards – to redevelop Downtown Brooklyn.

Downtown Brooklyn Development Includes Willoughby Street

Tuesday, May 29, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Economic Development

The Brooklyn Daily Eagle is reporting that Willoughby Street in Downtown Brooklyn will be home to nearly 11 new projects in the future, ranging from new retail spaces at the western and eastern ends of the seven-block area. The Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, who compiled the list of projects, did not include two public projects on the list: a park at both ends of the street. A focal point of the development is the Albee Square Center at the eastern end of Willoughby, which will add substantial amounts of residential units, retail, and office space. The total estimated cost of the projects is $2 billion.

Fears About Affordability in Wake of Development at Albee Square

Friday, May 25, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Economic Development

Plans to redevelop the land under the former Albee Square Mall have met with some resistance from local residents who fear that up-scale commercial development will drive up property values and displace the community. The city's Industrial Development Agency approved nearly $3.2 million in tax breaks for developers in exchange for an estimated 1,500 permanent jobs. The land, which is publicly owned, will be offered to developers at a reduced cost. According to Metro, the price tag is $100 million less than the city paid to lease the land during the winter.

Large Commercial Complex Proposed Near Fulton Street Mall

Thursday, May 24, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Economic Development

At least 20 local merchants near Fulton Street Mall claim that they are being forced out of their locations for a new commercial complex aimed at high-end retail. The $208 million development has been proposed by United American Lands, who plan to top the retail space located just a block from the Fulton Street Mall with luxury housing. Many residents are protesting this development along with Albee Square Mall, complaining about its effect on the neighborhood’s character and being forced out after year’s of investment in the neighborhood.

$15 Million For Fulton Street Mall

Monday, May 21, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Economic Development

The Bloomberg administration, in order to scale-up shopping options in Downtown Brooklyn, is earmarking $15 million for the redevelopment of the Fulton Street Mall shopping district. The plan includes a designation of $3 million to $4 million to build 10,000 square feet of green, open space at the Albee Square mall site.

Rezoning to Preserve Low-Scale Brownstones in Brooklyn

Wednesday, April 25, 2007 | Brooklyn Eagle | Topic: Land Use

The Brooklyn Daily Eagle is reporting that the Department of City Planning is ready to begin a formal public review process of a rezoning plan for a large area of the Fort Green and Clinton Hill neighborhoods of Brooklyn. The rezoning would establish height limits in the range of three to five stories that would "protect the character of the low-rise, brownstone neighborhoods." According to Amanda Burden, the head of City Planning, the rezoning will not restrict the development of affordable housing on account of the "city's groundbreaking inclusionary housing program." The rezone bounds Park Avenue (northern boundary), Atlantic Avenue (southern), Classon Avenue (eastern), and Ashland Place (western). Many maintain that the up-scale nature of the Atlantic Yards plans inspired the rezoning. Forest City Ratner, developer of the Atlantic Yards project, has foregone traditional city zoning procedure for his project.

Avalon Bay Planning Large Luxury Development for Downtown Brooklyn

Saturday, April 21, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Housing

Avalon Bay is discussing a new large-scale luxury development for Downtown Brooklyn. The proposed 42-floor project to be located at Myrtle Avenue and Gold street would hold 600 market-rate rentals. This is three time the number of rentals available in what is currently the tallest building in Brooklyn. Similar to the company’s Avalon development on the Lower East Side, the project would likely include many amenities for residents as well as ground-floor retail.

A Brooklyn Icon, the Clock Tower, Reappears

Friday, April 20, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The outcome of an $8 million project to preserve the historic clock tower at Brooklyn's tallest building, the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower, will soon be known when the building's owners finish the 512-foot tower's renovation in the summer. The clock tower, which was the largest clock in the world for a sizeable period of the 20th Century, will emerge from the scaffolding and netting that has covered it during the preservation effort. The building that houses the clock tower is currently being transformed into condominiums.

Rezoning Sparks Downtown Brooklyn's Residential Boom

Sunday, April 15, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Housing

Thanks to the recent rezoning, over 7,000 residential units are the in planning stages or under construction in downtown Brooklyn, not including the nearby Atlantic Yards proposal — which calls for eight million square feet of high-rise housing, office space and a basketball arena on 22 acres. With nearly a dozen subway connections, close proximity to local attractions and relatively low housing prices, this once marginal community is on the verge of becoming a truly “24 hour neighborhood.”

Historical Claim to Underground Railroad Rejected in Brooklyn

Friday, April 13, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

The consulting group AKRF, acting on behalf of the city, published a report that rejects the claims of residents of 223-225 Duffield Street in Brooklyn that the fugitive slave network used passage underneath their homes. The claim, which the petitioners hoped would lead to landmark status and a possible museum in the future, is inconclusive according to the report. While the city stands by the report, property owners on Duffield Street believe that the report was "doctored" so that the city can go ahead with their plan to develop Downtown Brooklyn without interruption.

More Building in Brooklyn, More Landmarks Under Pressure

Friday, April 06, 2007 | Municipal Art Society | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

This report by the Municipal Arts Society (MAS) studies the relationship between the record number of demolition permits issued in 2006 for the borough of Brooklyn with the ten areas of rezoning that the Bloomberg Administration has generated. The MAS believes that historical landmarks in Brooklyn are in critical need of preservation as the "building boom" continues in the borough. In 2005 alone the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce estimated that planned redevelopment in the borough reached 13 million square feet. With both demolition and building permits on the rise, who will protect Brooklyn's historical landmarks?

City to Reopen Brooklyn House of Detention

Tuesday, April 03, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

The New York City Department of Corrections wants to move nearly 1,500 inmates to the Brooklyn House of Detention which has been closed since 2003. This would require the construction of an addition to the prison on an adjacent lot on the corner of Boerum Place and Atlantic Avenue. While officials promise to include retail in the new addition, local residents of the surrounding booming residential and commercial area generally oppose the plan and fear that it will diminish the value of newly purchased luxury condos.

A Civic Architecture Response to an Era of Emergency Preparation

Tuesday, March 27, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Urban Design & Architecture

The city's Office of Emergency Management (OEM), originally destroyed in the 9/11 attacks, has found a new home in Downtown Brooklyn in a structure consistent with the tradition of civic architecture and the complexity of modern times, says the New York Sun. The new office renovation, which is situated in Cadman Plaza, is another in a series, following the General Post Office and the Federal Building Courthouse. The Department of Design + Construction oversaw the creation of the new building for the OEM.

Park Slope Traffic Plan Rejected

Saturday, March 24, 2007 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Transportation

A proposal to make two avenues in Park Slope one-way in order to better deal with expected traffic from Atlantic yards has been rejected by the transportation committee of the local community board, leading the Department of Transportation to decide not to go ahead with the plan. The proposal to make Sixth and Seventh Avenue one-way streets met residents by residents who are worried that the plan would destroy the residential feel created by slower two-way streets and that faster driving on one-way avenues would make the area more dangerous. Proponents claimed that the on-way plan would reduce accidents and allow better circulation of traffic when the Nets Arena is built. The full Community Board is expected to confirm the committee’s rejection on April 11th.

Setbacks For Duffield Street Residents

Friday, March 23, 2007 | Carrol Gardens/Cobble Hill Courier | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Several residents of Duffield Street in Brooklyn, who claim that their homes were part of the Underground Railroad, have been rebuffed by consulting firm AKRF in seeking confirmation that their homes were a part of the historical network. Their homes have been targeted for demolition to make way for the construction of the Starwood Aloft Hotel.

Study Finds Relief Options For Brooklyn Traffic

Friday, March 23, 2007 | Carrol Gardens/Cobble Hill Courier | Topic: Transportation

A study, conducted by transportation and traffic firm Sam Schwartz PLLC, has found five ways to ease traffic to and from the Brooklyn Bridge. Highlights of the study are emphases on improving access to the BQE at Atlantic Avenue, and bus route modifications between Downtown Brooklyn and Prospect Park.

Bedford Stuyvesant and Fort Greene set for Rezoning

Thursday, March 22, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

The city planning commissioner announced the planned rezoning of a large portion of Bedford-Stuyvesant and Fort Greene/Clinton Hill at Tuesday night’s Real Deal annual event. The plans were confirmed by Brooklyn’s city planning director. The rezoning plan includes creating allowances for greater height along commercial avenues in return for creation of affordable housing units while maintaining height caps on side streets. Panelists at the event remained largely positive on New York’s real estate market despite concerns of the beginning of a national slowdown. The Brooklyn rezoning is an additional effort to take advantage of the strong market and growth pressure in that area.

Site Choice for New Brooklyn Schools Cause for Concerns

Thursday, March 15, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Land Use

Assemblyman Jim Brennan and concerned parents questioned the head of the School Construction Authority at a public hearing about disparities in choosing sites for new school construction in Brooklyn. Region 8 – which includes Districts 13, 14, 15, and 16, and encompasses the neighborhoods of Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, Park Slope, and Bedford-Stuyvesant – is set to see the most growth in numbers of schools. Region 6, which is Districts 17, 18, and 22, otherwise known as Flatbush, Canarsie, Crown Heights, and Sheepshead Bay, is set to see comparatively less growth. This has sparked questions from Brooklyn residents to the City Department of Education.

New Shopping Center in Downtown Brooklyn to Meld History and Modernity

Thursday, March 08, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Economic Development

Barbara Paley new Atlantic Gardens project is a retail center which she hopes will attract Brooklyn’s new professionals while maintaining the history and the character of the neighborhood. The project will cover eight existing buildings, converting them to modern shops and a 3,000 square-feet terrace food and seating facilities. The facades themselves are to be maintained in a way consistent with the surrounding historic architecture. The development is part of a growing move on Atlantic Avenue towards more upscale retail. However some local companies worry that business has not picked up enough to justify the increasing rents, which could end up forcing out independent businesses.

As-of-Right Issues at Downtown Brooklyn Tower

Tuesday, March 06, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Politics & Government

Plans by developer Galit Network to add five stories to a residential tower near the Flatbush Avenue extension in Brooklyn might be thwarted by City Council Member Letitia James, who vowed to vote against the proposal in ULURP for the tower's alleged failure to integrate affordable and luxury housing. In order to add five stories as-of-right to a proposed tower that already meets the requirements of Downtown Brooklyn's 2003 rezoning the developer must go through the ULURP process. Shifts in the borders of council districts moved the 167 Johnson Street tower from Council Member David Yassky's district to Council Member James's. While James opposes the addition, Ken Fisher, former council member from the district and attorney for the developer, supports the project. The full community board will vote on the issue before the end of the month.

Office Space in Brooklyn in Demand

Tuesday, March 06, 2007 | The Real Deal | Topic: Economic Development

Demand for office space is rising significantly in Downtown Brooklyn as office space rents continue to climb in Manhattan, vacancy rates in Brooklyn increase to accommodate new migrations of firms, and Brooklyn office rents become cheaper. According to Cushman & Wakefield, Class A office space in Brooklyn during January 2007 was $33.78 per square foot on average, compared to $35.99 during the same period of the previous year. The potential for firm migration is also possible because new industries in search of office space, as opposed to traditional sectors like financial services, require less floor space. The Metro Tech Center remains the borough's largest office complex but the impending Atlantic Yards project will offer competition, enabling between 600,000 and 1.8 million square feet of office space.

Renaissance of Downtown Brooklyn

Thursday, March 01, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development

Downtown Brooklyn has been experiencing a surge of change that is likely to have the effect of drastically altering the neighborhood. Several large development deals including the creation of a large mixed-use tower at Albee Square are in the works and individuals in the hotel industry expect more than 2,000 rooms to be constructed in Brooklyn in the next five years. Besides these projects, Brooklyn is also investing in construction of the Brooklyn Academy of Music Cultural District. Approximately 40 residential projects are either under construction or planned, bringing a wave of new housing to the area. Office space in the area is also in short supply, and it is likely that additional projects will be proposed to meet these needs.

Developers Reach Agreement on Land for Mixed-Use Tower at Albee Square

Friday, February 23, 2007 | Other | Topic: Land Use

The redevelopment of Albee Square into a large mixed-use tower took another step forward in the process as developers confirmed that they had reached an agreement with New York City for a leasehold interest in the property. The development will occur on the current site of the Fulton Street Mall and an adjacent parking facility. Plans for the site include 475,000 square feet of retail space plus 125,000 square feet of office space. Discussions are ongoing about potential development of residential units as well. The development team has stated that they believe the building will be completed by 2011.

Brooklyn Mall to be Replaced by Mixed-Use Tower

Thursday, February 15, 2007 | Brooklyn Downtown Star | Topic: Land Use

After purchasing Albee Square Mall last week, it appears that new owners have a plan to tear down the three-story structure to build rental units. The apartment tower will be built on top of several stories of both retail and office space, making it one of the tallest buildings in Brooklyn. The scale of the new building is possible after the upzoning of downtown Brooklyn in 2004. The new owners will also receive about $1.8 million in city tax subsidies through both sales tax exemptions and a mortgage tax waiver. The EDC supports the new development in the hopes that it will bring many new jobs, offices, and living space to the area. Critics do not feel that the developer should be receiving all of the subsidies, as they are already benefiting from the rezoning. Others are just happy that this means WalMart will no longer be able to move onto the premises.

Mall Sold in Downtown Brooklyn

Friday, February 09, 2007 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Economic Development

Developer Thor Equities sold the Albee Square Mall in Downtown Brooklyn this week for nearly $125 million. The property consists of two parts, a retail area of the Fulton Street Mall where Dekalb Avenue and Fulton Street intersect and a parking lot along Willoughby Street. Three years after a rezoning in Downtown Brooklyn that allows for more commercial space, the City hopes that the property will attract a mix of commercial, residential, and retail uses to the area.

Downtown Brooklyn Losing its Unique Character After Rezoning?

Thursday, February 01, 2007 | Brooklyn Downtown Star | Topic: Land Use

Downtown Brooklyn has been undergoing a slow transformation ever since rezoning of the area in 2004. However, some are worried that these changes have led to a loss of essential neighborhood character as more small independent retail businesses are being forced out by higher rents and a decline customers. The entrance of multinational chains and more high-rise office or luxury residential towers have increased rents in the area or led to sale of buildings. Critics worry that the change is reducing the diversity and unique spirit which has historically drawn people to Brooklyn, while supporters continue to focus on the desire to increase neighborhood jobs and tax base.

Wal-Mart May Be Considering Move to Fulton Mall

Thursday, December 21, 2006 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

Wal-Mart may be considering the possibility of opening up a location in the proposed Albee Square tower. Plans have proposed tearing down the current Gallery and building a large mixed-use tower with office space, 800 apartments, and ground-floor retail space that could be a potential Wal-Mart site. So far Wal-Mart has met strong opposition from environmental and labor groups in its attempts to open up a New York City location.

Developer Buys Storefronts near Fulton Mall

Thursday, December 07, 2006 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Land Use

Developer Gregg Wolpert has purchased three properties on Lawrence Street between Fulton and Willoughby streets for $10.75 million. The developer’s hope is to expand the site. Some fear that Wolpert’s intention is to build residential condominiums, a possibility enabled by the 2004 rezoning of Downtown Brooklyn to accommodate more office space. The transaction leads some to believe that the expansion will rival the development of Atlantic Yards.

Housing First For Brooklyn Assemblyman

Friday, November 24, 2006 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Housing

Hakeem Jeffries, the newly-elected state assemblyman for Brooklyn’s 57th District says that producing more affordable housing is among his top priorities. Specifically, he feels that the mayor’s recommendations for the revision of the 421-a tax program won’t go far enough in creating affordable units. Jeffries would also like to see some changes to Atlanttic Yards.

Artists: Displacers or Displaced?

Tuesday, November 21, 2006 | Gotham Gazette | Topic: Economic Development

A recent conference at the Pratt Center focused on Art in the Contested City, exploring the nexus of art, culture, and urban development. New York City is in the midst of a citywide discussion about the economic implications of bringing artists into a neighborhood. While some fear that artists simply displace lower-income residents and maintain illegally converted industrial space for their work, others laud the ability of artists to develop the cultural and economic potential of a neighborhood. This article explores the myths and realities of artists in New York.

One Development, Two Sites

Friday, November 17, 2006 | Brooklyn Papers | Topic: Housing

A new residential tower planned for Downtown Brooklyn will be make use of the City’s inclusionary zoning policy in order to receive a height bonus. In return, the developer will build affordable housing units about two miles away. While many applaud the development of the affordable units, others argue that the policy promotes income segregation.

BID Proposed in Downtown Brooklyn

Friday, November 17, 2006 | Courier-Life Publications | Topic: Economic Development

A group of merchants in Downtown Brooklyn along a six-block stretch of buildings of Schermerhorn and Livingston streets are aiming to become Brooklyn's next business improvement district (BID). The attempt at the BID, which requires 51% approval from local owners, is needed “to give the shopping area between Court Street and Third Avenue a competitive edge against neighboring retail districts,“ according to proponents. The proposal has to go before Community Board 2 and the City Planning Commission this month for approval.

Brooklyn's Traffic Headache

Thursday, November 02, 2006 | Brooklyn Downtown Star | Topic: Transportation

Residents of Downtown Brooklyn and Boerum Hill are expressing anger over recent pedestrian deaths due to traffic accidents. Community members are upset that the city's Department of Transportation hasn’t implemented traffic control measures recommended in its own study from several years ago. In addition, the traffic mitigation measures proposed in the Atlantic Yards EIS seem to be inconsistent with previous suggestion.

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