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The “City of Yes” plan, introduced by New York City to update zoning regulations, has sparked controversy in the Bay Ridge community. While the plan aims to make it easier for businesses to operate and expand, the Bay Ridge Community Board is strongly opposed to a portion of it.
The controversy revolves around zoning changes that would allow for the expansion of businesses. Specifically, the plan would permit small stores to open in residential areas and would also allow businesses with three employees to operate out of a home. However, members of Brooklyn’s Community Board 10 are concerned that these changes could blur the lines between business and residential areas too much. They worry that allowing commercial activities in residential areas could lead to further expansion beyond what is currently proposed.
One member of the Bay Ridge community board expressed this sentiment, saying, “It stuns us when we read these proposals to move commercial into residential areas. The concern is that it won’t stop there; it will just continue to grow.”
Despite the opposition from the community board, some local businesses like Henry’s Florist support the proposed changes. They believe that having businesses on commercial streets is essential for the success of local businesses. Henry, the owner of Henry’s Florist, commented on the need for a solution, stating, “They have to find some kind of solution. Right now we have banks, but that doesn’t help people. We need to draw people in.”
Overall, while there are differing opinions on whether the proposed zoning changes will benefit local businesses or negatively impact residential areas within the Bay Ridge community.
