Areas of interest to the Greater East Midtown Rezoning efforts-39th through 57th St, Madison to Third Ave-with plans to modernize the commercial location, by developing Class-A office space, upgrading transit networks, enhancing retail corridors.

NY is a leader in promoting affordable housing, yet 87,000 people are applying for 150 units. Developers and bank representative discuss issues faced by developers: zoning, available land and by prospective tenants: means test, cumbersome applications.

Manufacturers, financial services, and a banker discuss changes and opportunities that have developed in their industries. As the New York/New Jersey region continues to grow, the feeling is "this is the best part of the world to do business."

Expansion of real estate markets requires additional capital, particularly in transitioning markets like Bushwick and East New York. When banks, the traditional source of capital, pull back, the alternative lender plays an important role in development.

Suburban/urban areas with access to good transportation are providing development opportunities. Wyandanch in Suffolk County, New Rochelle in Westchester - with the support of the communities - are important examples of creative renewal and growth.

Queens, NY's second most populated borough, is becoming "sexy," attracting artists, young couples and families. Transportation is great! Jackson Heights, Astoria, Corona, Flushing, Ozone Park and the Rockaways-Queens, the most diverse place on Earth.

"Retail" is experiencing two revolutions: e-commerce - the world of Amazon - and a change in demographics, where a great number of shoppers/buyers are from the younger generation. Where are the new markets?

Guests discuss "emerging" markets: areas, newly populated by those leaving locations because of increased costs: leaving Manhattan-parts of NYC- Brooklyn for Bushwick, Ridgewood, Coney Island, East New York, LIC, Staten Island. New areas-new challenges.

60 million visitors come to New York, the vast majority of them need a place to stay. New York City, alone, offers more than 112,000 rooms-in luxury hotels and budget facilities. Panelists discuss the effect of Airbnb's and overbuilding on the industry.

New Rochelle, a city of 80,000, with a vision, working with elected officials, members of the community, environmental advocates to develop a simple, transparent plan for the future of their city.