Tower Plans for Washington Ave Ruffling Feathers


Though the one-story paper warehouse that used to run from 163 Washington Avenue, just north of Myrtle, all the way through the block to Hall Street was demolished months ago, news of what is planned in its stead has only recently trickled out to nearby Clinton Hill residents, many of whom aren’t pleased with the idea of a 16-story tower imposing itself on the neighborhood of three- and four-story homes. We also hear that local politicians aren’t happy with the fact that the plan for the building does not include any affordable housing. Instead, it’s an as-of-right, unsubsidized project. Designed by the ubiquitous Karl Fischer, the current plan filed with the DOB calls for a 177-foot-high structure with 49 residential units. We can certainly sympathize with the neighbors who are less than thrilled with the shadows and competition for parking spaces that this will bring (and those whose adjacent properties have already suffered damage from the demo process); the developer also has done nothing to engage with the community. To play devil’s advocate, though, this could be a shot of adrenaline for the businesses of Myrtle Avenue and help bring some life to what is still a bit of a desolate area between the Clinton Hill Historic District and the Navy Yard. We gather that some people are trying to organize an opposition to the building but don’t have any specific information yet. Anyone have renderings or contact info for the opposition? Update: Anyone not pleased with the current plan may contact buildingtootall AT yahoo DOT com. GMAP P*Shark DOB
Feb 06, 2012 | 12:32 PM