Empty lots on Atlantic Avenue are getting a makeover

Advocates told News 12 they want to hear from people in the community so they can incorporate their vision into the planning process.

Shniece Archer

Jun 19, 2024, 2:51 AM

Updated 101 days ago

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People living on Atlantic Avenue could potentially see some new construction as the city tries to build more housing in the area.
Those driving down Atlantic Avenue often see empty parking lots, but in the next year, new apartment buildings could pop up.
"We have a housing crisis right now our vacancy rate is around 1.4%, and we see this as an opportunity to increase housing," said Alex Sommer, director of the Brooklyn office of the Department of City Planning.
Sommer, along with some members of his team, are trying to transform the empty parking lots.
He told News 12 it would create new homes, including affordable housing, as well as new spaces for jobs, more pedestrian friendly streets and overall improvement of the neighborhood.
Some residents said it sounds like overcrowding and congestion.
"A lot of folks moving in, prices shooting up, it's more congested," said Chris George, who lives in Brooklyn.
George said there's no space for more residents, and instead of building more homes, the money should go somewhere else.
"Especially with the Barclays and the little restaurants and other businesses and establishments they're making enough money already so they could invest the money into renovating parks or fixing street signs or stuff like that," said George.
Advocates told News 12 they want to hear from people in the community so they can incorporate their vision into the planning process.
NYC Planning will be at Lowry Triangle on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to hear from anyone who has ideas on improving the neighborhood.