Continuum Company is seeking city approval for a controversial high-rise development near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, now reduced to 14 stories and 475 apartments. The project faces opposition due to concerns about shadows on the garden and potential displacement of communities of color. Supporters highlight the focus on union jobs and local investment. The proposal will undergo further review, with a decision expected after July 26.
The developer behind a contentious high-rise housing project near the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is making a second attempt at securing city approval, despite facing opposition even after reducing the project to less than half its original height. Continuum Company, a real estate firm based in New York and Florida, is seeking to build a 14-story, 475-unit tower on the site of a former spice factory in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.
The project has sparked controversy, with many opponents expressing concerns about the potential impact on the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The City Planning Commission rejected Continuum’s initial rezoning proposal in 2021, citing issues with the shadows the towers would cast on sensitive areas of the garden. Despite reducing the height and number of units, the project is still facing pushback from community members and local officials.
The proposed development is subject to the city’s mandatory inclusionary housing rules, which require a quarter of the units to be set aside for low- and middle-income tenants. The existing zoning for the site, dating back to 1991, was established to limit shadows on the garden, emphasizing the city’s commitment to protecting this public asset.
The environmental impact review for the project indicated that it would cast shadows over parts of the garden for several hours a day, potentially affecting plant life and the garden’s conservatories. Concerns were raised about the potential displacement of communities of color and the project’s impact on racial equity and fair housing.
Supporters of the project, including union workers, highlighted the potential for job creation and community investment. Continuum’s representatives emphasized that the project would have minimal impact on sunlight reaching the garden, noting existing sources of shade from trees. They also highlighted the project’s alignment with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso’s Comprehensive Plan for Brooklyn, which aims to encourage sustainable development practices.
The project is currently undergoing a land use review process, with a decision expected from Reynoso by July 26. If approved, the project will proceed to the City Planning Commission and then the City Council for further consideration. Local Councilmember Crystal Hudson and Reynoso’s office have been contacted for comment but have not provided a response at this time.
Source: TheCity.NYC
