In a significant development for Central Harlem, the New York City Planning Commission (CPC) voted unanimously today to approve the ONE45 project, a mixed-use development proposed for the corner of West 145th Street and Lenox Avenue. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to revitalize a long-vacant site near Esplanade Gardens.
A Project Years in the Making
The ONE45 project, spearheaded by developer Bruce Teitelbaum, has undergone several iterations since its initial proposal. Originally, the plan included two 363-foot towers housing approximately 900 apartments, a civil rights museum, and the new headquarters for the National Action Network. However, the project faced significant opposition from community members and local officials concerned about affordability and potential gentrification.
In 2022, the Rev. Al Sharpton withdrew his support for the civil rights museum component, citing inadequate space for the envisioned facility. In a letter to the developers, Sharpton stated, “We strongly urge you to use the space that we are releasing to provide more affordable housing and senior housing, which has been the express desires of many in the Harlem community” .
Revised Plans and Community Engagement
Responding to community concerns, Teitelbaum revised the project to include a higher percentage of affordable housing units. A memorandum of understanding was signed with Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, outlining a plan where one of the towers would be constructed by a nonprofit developer to provide 100% affordable housing, potentially increasing the total number of affordable units to 591 .
Levine, who had previously opposed the project, expressed his support for the revised plan, stating, “Adding hundreds of affordable units is just an incredibly valuable addition to the housing landscape, that’s what we need. We need to both fight to help longtime residents stay in their homes, and we have a parallel fight to create new affordable homes for people who don’t have them” .
Next Steps in the Approval Process
With CPC approval secured, the ONE45 project advances to the final stages of the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP):
- City Council Review: The project will be reviewed by the New York City Council, where Harlem’s Council Member Yusef Salaam will play a significant role. While CPC approval is influential, Council Members traditionally hold sway over zoning decisions in their districts.
- Full City Council Vote: The entire Council is expected to vote on the project in the coming weeks. If approved, ONE45 would officially gain the green light for rezoning and redevelopment.
- Mayoral Signature: As the final step, the plan would be sent to Mayor Eric Adams for signature. Given his public support for increased housing and jobs in Harlem, approval is anticipated.
Community Perspectives
The community remains divided on the project. Supporters highlight the urgent need for housing and economic revitalization. “It’s time for Harlem to benefit from real investment. We can’t afford to let opportunities keep passing us by,” said one longtime Harlem resident.
Critics continue to express concerns about affordability and potential displacement. Delsenia Glover, second vice chair of Manhattan Community Board 10, stated, “This is not an affordable housing plan, it’s a gentrification plan.”
As the ONE45 project moves closer to realization, it embodies the complexities of urban development in New York City—balancing growth, affordability, and community preservation. The upcoming City Council vote will be a decisive moment in determining the future of this significant Harlem development.
Be First to Comment