As we know, sections of East New York and Cypress Hills will be highly affected by the rezoning proposed in the East New York Community Plan. Many of us have been concerned with the proposal and are highly focused on mainly addressing baseline issues such as affordable housing, displacement, job opportunities and services. However, amidst these critical concerns, we also have to think about how ph
ysically vulnerable the community is at this moment. The major rezoning will cause massive developments to invade “the last frontier”. It will cause rapid and insensitive changes where we may completely lose all the buildings and places that we identify with and that contribute to the history of our community. We will not know what the face of East New York will look like or what will remain of it. This is why Historic Preservation is important because if implemented, it can be used as a powerful tool for the community. The Preservation Law does not only work to protect history through the designation of buildings and places, but it works to strengthen and empower communities. Combined with planning and revitalization strategies it can drive economic growth and boost the community's well-being. By preserving and protecting existing structures, community organizations, small businesses and residents can be protected from rapid development that can lead to displacement. And not to mention, preservation protects investments. Therefore, Historic Preservation can be incorporated within our fight to make sure we have a fair rezoning while having the benefit of protecting the treasures of our community.
