Construction, building unions applaud housing bill

Legislation lacks mandates but pushes for equitable growth

Legislation introduced this week would increase the number of affordable homes across New York City, especially in higher-income neighborhoods where residents have traditionally resisted new housing and construction. 

The bill, introduced by Council Speaker Adrienne Adams with the backing of labor unions and pro-housing community groups, would have the Department of Housing Preservation and Development and Department of City Planning assess housing needs citywide and create housing and production targets in both specific community districts and across the entire city. The legislation also calls for the two departments to create a framework for how best to preserve current affordable housing developments and prevent displacement in lower-income neighborhoods where new developments are being built.