New York Ready to Focus Revitalization Efforts in Far Rockaway

Emily Julia Roche reports on a recently announced $91 million investment by the city of New York intended to revitalize Downtown Far Rockaway, "by widening sidewalks and adding amenities such as benches and trees, replacing storefront signage and installing free public wi-fi." 

"Money will also be used to expand community programming, connect local residents to job training and opportunities, including at nearby John F. Kennedy International Airport and build below-market housing," adds Roche.

As Roche notes, the redevelopment proposal will include rezoning, which will require approval through the city's land use application process. Local City Councilmember Donovan Richards is quoted in the article anticipating potential controversy over questions of density, promising careful community engagement and an end to a tradition of unfulfilled promises from the city. According to Roche, a "public information session will be held next month to introduce the new plan to local residents. After that, it will enter the city’s land use application process to approve changes to zoning in the low-density neighborhood."