Zoning Reform Unlocks Housing Opportunity

The City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is a sweeping reform to New York City’s zoning laws aimed at easing the city’s housing crisis by enabling modest, well-distributed residential development citywide.

NYC’s Deputy Director of Zoning Chris Hayner, architect Greg Haley, and zoning attorney James Colgate at a panel discussion on city housing, during the New York Build expo in March 2025. — Photo: linkedin.com/in/gregory-haley-a84757b6

Approved by the City Council in December 2024, the plan is projected to facilitate 82,000 new homes over 15 years. Key features include the Universal Affordability Preference, which allows 20% building expansions when additional units are income-restricted, and targeted incentives such as the Town Center and Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) initiatives. These promote mid-scale apartments over retail corridors and near transit hubs—especially in traditionally low-density neighborhoods.

At a recent New York Build expo panel, NYC’s Deputy Director of Zoning Chris Hayner emphasized equitable growth: “Every neighborhood should do its fair share.” Architect Greg Haley highlighted the benefits of four- to six-story buildings, citing Danish models of communal, walkable housing. Zoning attorney James Colgate underscored the plan’s complexity—but also its potential.

From relaxed parking mandates to accessory dwelling units, the City of Yes marks a transformative moment in how New York plans for growth, affordability, and livability. 🀰

»Zoning Reform Unlocks Housing Opportunity«