With the recently approved Elevate Transit: Zoning for Accessibility text amendment to the Zoning Resolution, new projects near transit stations will help New York City address a critical deficiency in its transit system: too many stations are not accessible. The new regulations require that new projects on properties 5,000 square feet or larger within 50 feet of a transit station in certain zoning districts provide an easement to allow the MTA to make accessibility improvements. The regulations further incentivize by providing for a floor area bonus – up to 20%, within certain districts, near-certain stations – for developer-provided transit improvements, such as making a station accessible by providing elevators.

As one of the first projects to implement the new zoning regulations, dD+P is collaborating with Handel Architects on the inclusion of a new entrance to the Queensboro Plaza Station at the base of a 26-story residential tower located just north of the station. The new entrance’s elevator and widened stairs will improve accessibility to the station, which, along with improvements being undertaken by the MTA, will make the station fully ADA-compliant. The developer – Grubb Properties – is applying for the floor area bonus that the new Zoning for Accessibility envisioned for this type of project: a public-private partnership that results in a win-win-win situation for the traveling public, the MTA, and the developer.

dD+P can leverage its extensive experience and expertise with transit projects in assisting developers and their designers in navigating the MTA approvals process and taking advantage of the new zoning regulations. We look forward to hearing from you – please let us know how we can assist you in your next project.