Builders Applaud Hochul’s Commitment to Expediting Housing Approvals
In New York, housing developers are hopeful following Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent commitment to expedite housing approvals. This initiative is designed to address the housing crisis while preserving environmental integrity.
Environmental Review Challenges
Ryan Benz, a Syracuse developer, reported that he and his team incurred over $1 million in costs to prepare an environmental impact statement for their redevelopment plan at ShoppingTown mall. Despite prevailing in court, their $400 million project fell through due to prolonged litigation.
- Project location: ShoppingTown mall, Syracuse
- Estimated expenses: Over $1 million
- Proposed budget: $400 million
Onondaga County, which owns the mall property, is expected to issue a new request for development proposals soon. Many developers share Benz’s frustration with delays caused by New York’s environmental review law.
Governor Hochul’s Proposal
In her State of the State address, Governor Hochul announced plans to reform the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). Her aim is to exempt certain housing developments from lengthy review processes. Developers and housing advocates view this as a significant step toward solving the state’s housing shortage.
Key Features of Hochul’s Plan
- Fast-tracked reviews for “previously disturbed land.”
- Restrictions on the number of housing units based on community density.
- Support for infrastructure by prioritizing urbanized areas with existing water and sewage services.
Hochul noted the dual benefits of her proposal, which include protecting natural resources while enhancing urban neighborhoods. The full details of the proposal will be presented alongside her budget later this month.
Support from Local Legislators
Senator Rachel May, a Democrat from Syracuse, has introduced the “Sustainable Affordable Housing and Sprawl Prevention Act.” This legislation seeks to further streamline reviews for projects including affordable housing units.
“Our goal is to facilitate construction in infill zones where lengthy lawsuits have become a norm,” May stated. She emphasized that the SEQRA process often leads to extended delays, thus inflating costs and jeopardizing project completion.
The Impact of Delays
Developers assert that the time and expenses associated with SEQRA can significantly hinder housing projects. A 2022 study by the Citizens Budget Commission revealed that environmental reviews in New York City took an average of two years, contributing an additional 11% to 16% in project costs.
In Central New York, builders like Dan Barnaba from Eldan Homes acknowledge that the current review process is often misused by opponents who seek to delay projects. He applauds Hochul’s proactive stance, noting increased government engagement regarding development barriers.
Looking Ahead
With changes on the horizon, developers remain optimistic about the potential for faster housing approvals. According to Benz, the environmental review process remains essential but can be a source of excessive delays and costs.
As New York navigates its housing challenges, the intent to improve the speed of new housing developments could be a critical turning point for the state’s real estate landscape.
