The Department of City Planning is proposing a series of revisions to the WRP in order to proactively advance the long-term goals laid out in Vision 2020: The New York City Comprehensive Waterfront Plan, released in 2011. The proposed changes will solidify New York City’s leadership in the area of sustainability and climate resilience planning as one of the first major cities in the U.S. to incorporate climate change considerations into its Coastal Zone Management Program. They will also promote a range of ecological objectives and strategies, facilitate interagency review of permitting to preserve and enhance maritime infrastructure, and support a thriving, sustainable working waterfront.
Proposed revisions to the Waterfront Revitalization Program
Public Review Process
Following referral by the City Planning Commission on March 26, 2012, the revisions to the WRP undergo public review following the 197-a process for community input and adoption. Community Boards within the city’s Coastal Zone had 60 days and each Borough Board and Borough President had 120 days for review and to submit comments. The comment period ended on July 31, 2012.
DCP staff presented the revisions at public meetings to all five Borough Boards, two Borough Presidents, and the 19 Community Boards who requested presentations, as well as numerous other stakeholders. Five Borough Boards held public hearings. Three Borough Boards approved with comments, 0 opposed, and 2 did not take a position. Two Borough Presidents approved with comments, 0 opposed and 3 did not take a position. Thirteen Community Boards responded in writing in the following way: 3 approved, 9 approved with comments, 0 opposed, and 1 reviewed without taking a position.
On September 19, 2012, the City Planning Commission held a public hearing at 10 AM, Spector Hall, 22 Reade Street, New York.
Pursuant to the Rules for Charter Section 197-a, on November 13, 2012, the Commission opted for additional time to consider the proposed revisions to the WRP and comments received during the public review period.
Subsequently, the proposed revisions to the WRP require approval by the City Planning Commission (vote date to be determined) and the City Council. Following all local approvals, the NY State Dept. of State and the US Dept. of Commerce must also approve the revisions.
For more information about the proposed revisions to the WRP, contact Jessica Fain at the Waterfront and Open Space Division at 212-720-3525 or by email at
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This material was prepared for the New York State Department of State, with funds provided under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund.