City Council Approves Solow Development Project

In a vote taken yesterday, the City Council's Land Use Committee approved Sheldon Solow's $4 billion mixed-use development project along the East River. Local Council Member Daniel Garodnick, who opposed the original plan and whose support was crucial to the plan being passed, cited a number of concessions exacted from Mr. Solow as key to gaining his approval. In a release, Mr. Garodnick said a decrease in the heights and densities of the buildings, enhanced public space, a lowering of the height of the commercial building, and additional affordable housing were the key concessions. The plan now moves to the city's Planning Commission for a final review and then a final vote by the 51-member City Council. "We deeply appreciate the unanimous vote of the City Council's Land Use Committee approving this exciting project," Mr. Solow said in a statement. "We look forward to constructing an inviting destination that will enhance the waterfront and add significantly to the economic and social vitality of the city, for the benefit of all New Yorkers."