Publication
Models and Questions to Reform Exclusionary Zoning in New York
New York State has no statute limiting exclusionary zoning. This leads to less affordable housing, heightened income and racial inequalities, a less productive economy as fewer people can move to New York City and its suburbs, more environmental harm as fewer people can live in denser forms of housing or near transit, and limited choices for living arrangements outside of single-family homes. The politics and historical record of land use decisions strongly suggest that changes at the state, rather than local, level are required to systematically address exclusionary zoning and expand New York’s housing stock. Most of New York’s peer states have stepped in to promote inclusive housing development. Their experiences can inform the choices of New York policymakers as they seek to solve New York’s housing crisis.
