109,000. This is the number of new homes New York City aims to create over the next 15 years through its City of Yes for Housing Opportunity zoning proposal. Despite broad agreement on the need for more housing, the path is fraught with obstacles. Development is expensive and outdated regulations and zoning have impeded development of new housing and conversion of office buildings. How will New York overcome these challenges and turn promise into progress? To shed light, we’re joined by Dan Garodnick, Director of the Department of City Planning and Chair of the City Planning Commission. In WTDP’s new episode, he helps us unpack the Administration’s proposals, the role of City Planning, and what’s at stake if we fail to address this critical crisis.

Listen to NYC Planning Director Dan Garodnick on:

-15:41: Explaining City of Yes benefits to potential opponents

-20:05: Parking requirements

-25:04: How Universal Affordability Preference will deliver

-28:08: Office to residential conversions

-29:22: Impacts of 485-X

-31:15: Importance of Green Fast Track

-33:45: Being a former City Councilmember talking to current Councilmembers