Yesterday Pardon Me For Asking reported that the Lightstone Group will build “as of right” at 363-365 Bond Street, its huge Gowanus property, meaning the firm will comply with existing zoning. Previously, the development group planned to request what it said were “minor” modifications to the Toll Brothers’ plan, which went through an entire ULURP, or land review process. Many local residents thought the new development should go through a ULURP process of its own. Above is the new rendering, from Council Member Brad Lander’s office. Lightstone will build within the existing zoning boundaries, although it’s unclear how dramatically they’ve altered the plans and if the development will still hold 700 rental units. They will also move the development slightly away from the waterfront and increase the grade at First Street, due to new waterfront development rules and concerns after Hurricane Sandy. (After Sandy flooded the development site, Brad Lander asked the developers to withdraw their plans.) Today the developers had a date with the Department of City Planning to present the new plans. Presumably that will clear up some lingering questions, and it’ll be interesting to see if these changes are more warmly received by the community.
Important Update Regarding Lightstone’s Proposed Gowanus Project [PMFA]


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  1. A beautiful summer twilight…young lovers in (literal) toxic relationships, drifting lazily through the sludge, gondoliers wearing hazmat suits…ah, an idyllic scene indeed.

    Topped off with a nightcap at the outdoor Pentagram lounge – seriously, now: What could possibly be better than that? Living the good life… in the Canal Zone!

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