Residents of Windsor Terrace and Park Slope voiced strong opposition to a proposed zoning change that would allow for the construction of significantly taller buildings in their neighborhoods during a recent government meeting. The proposal seeks to increase building heights from the current three stories to as much as 19 stories, a change that many locals believe would fundamentally alter the character of their communities.
William Antegna, a long-time resident, expressed his concerns about the potential impact on noise levels, citing his struggle with tinnitus. He argued that the construction of taller buildings would exacerbate noise pollution, undermining his quality of life and forcing him to reconsider his place in the city. \"Building these very, very tall buildings adds so much more to this noise around me that will literally destroy my dream of being in this city,\" he stated.
Antegna also criticized the proposal as a \"money grab,\" suggesting that the new developments would cater to wealthier residents rather than addressing the needs of working-class individuals in the area. He challenged the notion that affordable housing could only be achieved by sacrificing essential amenities like parking, asserting that it is possible to create a balanced development that includes both affordable units and adequate parking.
The meeting highlighted a growing tension between development interests and community preservation, as residents fear that such significant changes could lead to a loss of the neighborhood's unique identity. As discussions continue, the future of Windsor Terrace and Park Slope hangs in the balance, with residents advocating for a development approach that respects the existing character of their homes.