Hear From LICH Developer Fortis at Thursday's Public Meeting

A public planning meeting about the controversial redevelopment of Cobble’s Long Island College Hospital site has been set for Thursday at the Brooklyn Montessori School. Convened by local public officials, the Cobble Hill Association and developer Fortis Property Group, the purpose of the meeting is to hear from local residents, businesses and other concerned members of the public about Fortis’ proposed plans.

Fortis will present two proposals, which Council Member Brad Lander has called a “lesser of evils” situation. The public is also invited to discuss alternatives.

• The first of the plans, which Fortis can build “as of right,” would include a 44-story tower and 400 market rate units but no other amenities.
• The second plan, which would require a rezoning, would offer shorter towers of 40 stories, more units, and also include affordable housing, a public school, a larger park, and options for small retail spaces.

Any possible rezoning would require a formal public review process, known as ULURP, and approval by multiple city agencies.

Either way, Fortis is required to open a new health facility, the one requirement of the sale. (NYU recently filed plans to start constructing it.)

A little background: Fortis agreed to buy the LICH property from SUNY last year for $240,000,000. Residents opposed the closure of LICH and the building of tall towers near low-rise Cobble Hill, much of which is landmarked, as we have detailed in countless stories.

The meeting will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 185 Court Street. For more information, click here.

Long Island College Hospital Coverage [Brownstoner]
Rendering via Curbed