Source: Crain’s NY

Date Published: 01.30.2025

Link: On Real Estate: Battles over building heights are here to stay

A new city-led housing project in the Meatpacking District, planned to include at least half affordable units, is facing unexpected opposition especially over its height. The proposed tower could rise over 500 feet to fit 600 apartments, sparking complaints it’s “too tall” from local group Village Preservation and even the typically pro-development Councilman Erik Bottcher, who called for a pause.

Height concerns have long plagued NYC developments despite the city’s housing shortage and recent reforms like the “City of Yes” zoning package. Though the city remains confident the project will proceed by 2027, the debate over building height persists, echoing past battles like the New York Blood Center tower. While opposition may influence design, it’s unlikely to stop the project.