Land Use committee presses for audits, EIS scope and oversight on three major projects

Eugene Yu, chair of the Land Use and Housing committee, told the executive committee the committee will send three resolutions to full board.

First, the committee discussed a developer payment in lieu of on‑site mandatory inclusionary housing at 43 Pleecker Street. The committee asked that the project be audited for square footage and that the board be informed where in‑lieu funds would be deposited, citing uncertainty over whether the former loft building contained legally established residences before conversion.

Second, the committee submitted comments on the scope of work for the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the city's proposed "last mile" facility text amendment. Committee members recommended that the EIS examine vehicle types and traffic generation, charging and energy infrastructure for final‑mile delivery vehicles and neighborhood character impacts related to charging infrastructure.

Third, the committee drafted a resolution about the Gansevoort/Fort Square proposed housing and development. Committee members said developers will submit RFP responses later this month and urged state leadership in consideration of the site's best use; the committee raised questions about the Whitney Museum's asserted right of first offer and whether the site will produce the maximum possible housing and share of affordable units when compared with other city‑owned land developments.

Eugene said the committee's resolutions mainly request more information and oversight rather than opposing specific approvals, and that the RFP milestone will generate further scrutiny.