NEW YORK, NY – June 15, 2025 – The transformative 73-99 Empire Boulevard rezoning project has been approved by the New York City Council, marking a significant milestone in pursuit of the city’s economic development and housing goals at a critical gateway to the Empire Boulevard corridor in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Significantly, the project will deliver 261 new dwelling units, including at least 52 permanently affordable units. In addition, the project includes substantial space for national and local retailers. The development represents a major investment in the resiliency of the Crown Heights neighborhood by supporting the area’s continued growth and economic development.

DHC’s Land Use Expertise Drives Success
The successful navigation of the project through New York City’s complex rezoning process was made possible through the critical expertise provided by the firm’s land use attorneys. DHC’s extensive experience over the last 50 years navigating projects through the labyrinth of New York City boards, commissions, and the City Council, proved instrumental in securing the necessary approvals for this transformative project.

In particular, DHC’s specialized knowledge of New York City’s unique Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), and our extensive experience with mixed-use developments like the 73-99 Empire Boulevard project, enabled us to effectively obtain approval of an upzoning that ensures realization of the project’s ambitious goals regarding the production of affordable housing along with substantial retail development. The firm’s strategic guidance throughout the land use review approval process helped ensure that the concerns of New York City’s planners, community stakeholders, and elected officials all were properly addressed so that the project would meet the city’s planning, housing, and economic development objectives.