Community representatives including Borough President Scott Stringer have argued that growth in the residential population in the area has increased the need for public services. Margaret Chin, the District 1 City Council representative, testified at an August Planning Commission hearing that the number of residential units in the area has soared almost 76 percent since 2000. She said the disposition of the three office buildings creates an opportunity to provide new school seats, affordable housing, childhood and senior centers, and work space for artists, among other uses.
“We are all proud of the great strides lower Manhattan has made, but this neighborhood faces significant challenges that are threatening the quality of life, safety, efficiency and viability of this community,” Ms. Chin testified. “This administration cannot in good conscience continue to add thousands of luxury residential units, hotel rooms and tourist amenities without providing for the residents.”
Ms. Chin argued the city moved ahead with its request for proposals “too hastily,” and said that the RFP “must be reissued in consultation with Community Board 1 and must include the creation of a new school in lower Manhattan.”
After hearing testimony from the community board, which voted 39-0 against the plan, and the planning commission, which approved the plan while acknowledging the concerns raised by the opponents, the subcommittee will make its recommendation to the City Council.
