The New York City Council voted on Thursday to approve an ambitious rezoning plan for the East Bronx, aimed at fostering the development of approximately 7,000 new apartments around two Metro-North train stations planned for the area in the coming years. The rezoning plan for the Metro-North Bronx station area will cover about 46 blocks surrounding a train line in the Morris Park and Parkchester/Van Nest neighborhoods, to take advantage of the new transportation options near two of the four Metro-North stations that will open in the Bronx in 2027.
Rezoning for Development
The changes in zoning will allow for residential development in parts of Parkchester/Van Nest that are currently zoned only for commercial and manufacturing uses, and will increase the number of housing units permitted in both that area and the residential districts of Morris Park, according to the Council. This approval comes as the city faces its most significant shortage of rental units in decades, and as Mayor Eric Adams’ administration seeks to pass a broader rezoning called “City of Yes,” which would streamline construction throughout the city, including around transit stations.
The Council District 13, where much of the rezoning area is located, saw only 369 new affordable apartments built between 2014 and 2023, ranking 39th out of the 51 Council districts in terms of housing development, according to a tracker produced by the New York Housing Conference. The neighboring District 18, which includes Parkchester, had 2,523 affordable units built during the same period.
Community Board Recommendations
The community boards that cover the rezoning area issued mixed recommendations on the plan. The Bronx Community Board 11, which encompasses Morris Park, Pelham Gardens, Pelham Parkway, and Van Nest, voted in favor of the rezoning, citing concerns about the necessary infrastructure improvements to accompany the growth it would bring. The Bronx Community Board 9, which includes Parkchester, similarly voted in favor.
However, the Bronx Community Board 10, which covers the neighborhoods of Pelham Bay and Westchester Square, opposed the rezoning, stating in its recommendation that “building height remains a concern” and requesting more opportunities for affordable homeownership.
While community board votes are not binding, they can influence how the City Planning Commission and Council negotiate the details of a zoning agreement. Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, who represents much of the rezoning area and has previously opposed high-profile housing projects in the district, voted in favor of approving the plan on Thursday.
Addressing Community Concerns
“From the moment this proposal was introduced, I have been committed to ensuring that it aligns with the needs and aspirations of our community,” the legislator declared before voting. “In response to their concerns, we have managed to introduce fundamental modifications to this plan,” she added. “This includes limiting building height, reinstating mandatory parking, and preserving our low-density neighborhoods.”
The council members also negotiated $500 million in investments in local infrastructure to accompany the rezoning, including renovations to eight parks and playgrounds, improvements to facilities at seven schools, the construction of a pedestrian plaza at the Morris Park station, as well as transportation enhancements and drainage improvements to prevent street flooding throughout the rezoning area.
Positive Impact on Residents
Council spokesperson Adrienne Adams stated that the works “will have a lasting positive impact on Bronx residents.” “Addressing the housing crisis and affordability in our city requires creating more homes for New Yorkers,” she said in a statement. “The opening of new Metro-North stations in the East Bronx presents a unique opportunity to develop new housing and homeownership opportunities.”
The approved rezoning plan aims to balance the need for increased housing with preserving the character of the community. By utilizing the new transportation options provided by the upcoming Metro-North stations, the East Bronx is poised for significant growth and development in the years to come. Residents can look forward to improved infrastructure, expanded housing options, and enhanced community spaces as a result of this rezoning initiative.
Investing in the Future
The $500 million investment in local infrastructure demonstrates a commitment to supporting the growth and well-being of Bronx residents. By upgrading parks, schools, and transportation facilities, the city is not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the foundation for a more vibrant and sustainable community. These investments will not only enhance the quality of life for current residents but also attract new families and businesses to the area.
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