City Planning Commission Okays Midtown South Rezoning Proposal

The City Planning Commission (CPC) on Wednesday voted in favor of the Midtown South Mixed-Use (MSMX) Plan, a proposal to bring approximately 9,700 new homes across 42 blocks of Midtown South where housing is largely not allowed today. By mapping Mandatory Inclusionary Housing onto the neighborhood for the first time, and requiring new developments to include affordable housing, MSMX ensures that up to 2,900 of those units will be permanently affordable.

“With commercial vacancies too high and housing vacancies at historically low levels, it’s a perfect time to seize this opportunity to create a 24/7, mixed-use neighborhood,” said CPC chair Daniel Garodnick. “This plan will bring forth a vibrant mix of commercial, manufacturing, and residential uses, creating a truly dynamic community here. Today’s vote takes us one step closer to the affordable homes, jobs, and infrastructure improvements Midtown South deserves.”

The MSMX plan covers four distinct areas centered around Herald and Greeley Squares located roughly between West 23rd and West 40th Streets as well as Fifth and Eighth Avenues. This part of Midtown South is largely saddled with outdated industrial zoning that prohibits new housing, severely limiting opportunities for future growth, according to Mayor Adams’ office.