News
The 99-Unit Loophole: How 485-x Is Reshaping What Gets Built
When 421-a expired in 2022, the effect was immediate and predictable. Development slowed, projects stalled, and many in the industry stepped back entirely. The program had its flaws, but it did something essential: it made rental housing financially viable in New York City.
Its replacement, 485-x, is the new tax abatement program passed at the state level, designed to reinvigorate the development of affordable housing by private sector developers. It does that by offering multi-year property tax relief in exchange for the developer’s commitment to hitting specific affordability targets.
The law aims to fix the flaws of 421-a, bringing more affordability. stronger tenant protections, and better wages for construction workers. On paper, it is a more equitable program.
In practice, it is producing something more complicated.
New Synagogue going through the approval process
A lot goes into getting a new project approved, especially when located in a protected district. The neighborhoods of Riverdale and Fieldston in the Bronx have the double challenge of being historically protected and also in a Special Natural Area District. This means additional measures must be taken to protect the environment. For this new 4,100 square foot synagogue, Community Board 8 met to give their approval.
Announcing our brand new apartment building in Brooklyn
On the site of an old ballroom, we are collaborating with Double U Development to build a new 7 story, 60 unit apartment building. Previous plans included a retail building that was scrapped in favor of much-needed housing
SARA National Awards Dinner
We are so pleased to have this house recognized at the SARA National Awards. Most awards grant recognition to only recently completed projects. We were thrilled that one of our favorite house projects was able to qualify for this award despite being an older build.