Issue: A client purchased a historic building for commercial redevelopment, but after the acquisition, a local preservation group pushed for landmark designation, which would have significantly limited the planned renovations.

Resolution: The firm successfully advocated before the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), demonstrating that the proposed redevelopment maintained historical integrity while contributing to economic growth. The project was approved with modifications that satisfied stakeholders.

Issue: A nonprofit developer sought to build an affordable housing complex but struggled to secure financing due to high property taxes. The project required a tax abatement under the 421-a program and additional incentives from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

Resolution: The firm negotiated with city agencies to secure the necessary 421-a benefits and additional financial incentives, allowing the project to move forward while ensuring compliance with affordability requirements.

Issue: A major real estate developer faced a stop-work order on a high-rise project due to a dispute over construction safety regulations and neighbor complaints about site conditions.

Resolution: The firm coordinated with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) and the local community board, implemented a revised safety plan, and negotiated a resolution that lifted the stop-work order while addressing neighbor concerns.

Issue: A client faced significant permitting delays for a mixed-use development due to shifting environmental impact review requirements and pushback from city agencies.

Resolution: The firm worked with the NYC Department of City Planning (DCP) and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to streamline the environmental review process, negotiate compliance measures, and expedite the issuance of necessary permits.

Issue: A developer planned to construct a high-rise office tower in Midtown but needed to purchase air rights from an adjacent property to maximize the building’s height. The transaction required city approval and compliance with zoning regulations.

Resolution: The firm facilitated negotiations with the NYC Department of City Planning and local stakeholders, ensuring compliance with Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) regulations, and secured approvals for the air rights transfer.

Issue: A property owner opposed the city’s plan to convert a nearby commercial property into a homeless shelter, arguing that the process lacked transparency and violated zoning laws.

Resolution: The firm represented the client in negotiations with city agencies and found fire safety violations which ultimately led to a compromise where the city adjusted the shelter’s capacity and operational guidelines to address community concerns.

Resolution: The firm navigated negotiations with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB), mediated a resolution between the landlord and tenants, and structured a cost-sharing agreement that avoided litigation and ensured compliance with city regulations.