2021-2022 Capital Plan Q&A

Why do we need Eco Dev studies?      

Updated Answer:

The following projects and the need for funding will be moved to the FY 2023 Capital Budget.

Eco Dev Zoning Study

The city’s current Zoning Code is over 35 years old.  It does not respond to current issues facing the city and its residents, examples: 

• as homes have been raised due to Superstorm Sandy, there is greater impact on neighbors’ properties because of the taller buildings: we need to answer what is the best way to deal with side and rear yard requirements for light and air, especially where there are narrow properties?
• for new development: retaining water on site to reduce street and neighborhood flooding;
• provide updated requirements for developers to respect and help preserve the unique community character of our diverse neighborhoods;
• require a percentage of new housing to be affordable to help retain local residents in the community as housing costs increase;
• address issues with our three downtowns to make them more viable and help expand the tax base, and, at the same time, more responsive to community issues, such as parking, refuse, noise, etc.

      Eco Dev EAF and EIS for Zoning

Under NYS SEQRA requirements, a Zoning Code Update as proposed for the city, requires a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).  The cost is based upon estimates from other, local communities.

      Eco Dev Parking

One of the most important issues for Long Beach, if not the most important, is how to deal with the impacts of limited parking and increased traffic, especially during the summer months.  From speaking with experts in the field, a full community parking study will give us the necessary knowledge to address these issues.