A Report From Yesterday Afternoon's Gowanus Rezoning Public Scoping

Three Gowanus artists testifying

Buddy Scotto giving his usual Gowanus history lesson

I was able to attend the Gowanus Rezoning Public Scoping session yesterday afternoon at Brooklyn Borough Hall, and though I frankly did not want to sit through yet another hearing, I felt strongly that it was important to attend.
And I am glad I did.

A group of Gowanus artists spoke passionately about the need to protect studio spaces, reminding the Department of Planning that they have made the area their home for a very long time. (See the video below)

Architect John Hatheway urged DoP to limit the height of new development along the banks of the canal at 8 stories. The newly approved 12 story Toll Brothers' development should not be used as a benchmark according to Hatheway.

Amy Anderson, representing the New York Industrial Retention Network, made a convincing case for preserving the existing manufacturing community and existing jobs.
Below is an excerpt from her testimony.

The Gowanus area is a flourishing manufacturing community with potential to host additional companies seeking to do business in New York City. Small manufacturing businesses play a significant role in the health of the city's economy and are a pathway to sustainability. The manufacturing sector in particular provides employment to City residents with little to no formal education, offering a competitive wage and skill development opportunities. Existing manufacturing businesses in the Gowanus rezoning area already employ over 1,500 people with opportunity to grow.

There is little to no demand for housing in Sub Area A of the proposed plan and other land along Fourth Avenue, Atlantic Yards and elsewhere has yet to be built out. Recently, constructed co-ops and condos are sitting vacant. Further rezoning east of the Gowanus Canal may result in what is sometimes referred to as "planners blight" as it will encourage land speculation, increasing the costs of doing businesses and threatening the very livelihoods of thousands of residents.

There is however, tremendous need for industrial space as exhibited by the low vacancy rates throughout the city. The Mayor has repeatedly said that the City must diversify its economy and create green collar jobs. New York City remains a desirable city for seasoned and new niche businesses alike. It's close proximity to customer bases, transportation modes, and skilled workforce continues to retain and attract manufacturing companies. The investment the City will be making in retrofitting and weatherizing buildings, renewable energy, and in greening virtually every aspect of our City's systems creates the opportunity for business growth. Yet DCP has rezoned more than 20 million sq. ft. of industrial space over the past 5 years. Where does City Planning believe the new green businesses should go?

Gowanus Artists Testifying On Area Rezoning from Katia Kelly on Vimeo.

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