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November 19, 2011
Building #2 announcement raises questions about construction plans, parking and open space
Atlantic Yards Watch
When will there be promised affordable housing, parking for residential housing and open space? Just because Atlantic Yards is a publicly-subsidized project, it doesn't mean the public is allowed to know the answers.
The New York Times has unveiled pictures of what may be the first residential building to be built at Atlantic Yards. If this design is used for what is called Building #2, the 350-unit building will be the tallest using modular construction in the world.
At the last several District Service Cabinet meetings FCRC Vice Presidents Jane Marshall and Bob Sanna have stated alternate plans using modular and conventional construction are being prepared by FCRC. The Times notes that "the developer ultimately may instead decide to build the first tower conventionally."
According to the Wall Street Journal, FCRC will build using modular techniques if an agreement can be reached with the construction unions. The Journal cites Bruce Ratner that existing incentives for developments where half the units are priced for middle and low income tenants "don't work for a high-rise building that is union-built." Norman Oder in Atlantic Yards Report calls this a "stunning contention" and "astounding admission" because in both 2006 and 2009 the State found plausible the developer's argument it could build the residential development with existing incentives within ten years. Evidence to the contrary was ignored when those findings were made.
Posted by steve at November 19, 2011 11:36 PM