New York City Council Proposes Construction Code Updates to Build 35,000 New Homes on Small Lots
The New York City Council is advancing a proposal to reform construction codes, potentially unlocking up to 35,000 new homes on small and oddly-shaped lots across the city. Council Speaker Julie Menin announced these changes during an American Institute of Architects luncheon, highlighting the potential of approximately 3,000 underutilized lots. The proposed reforms aim to bypass lengthy zoning approvals, allowing for the development of housing on these sites as-of-right. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the city's housing crisis, characterized by historically low vacancy rates and high rents. The Council also plans to establish a new panel, the Council Advisory Group on Housing Affordability, to guide these efforts. The group will include experts, advocates, and community organizations to ensure the reforms are effective and safe. 
