PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Diana Finch, Resident of Community Board 11
4:15:22
·
106 sec
Diana Finch, a long-time resident of Community Board 11, expresses support for the Metro North rezoning proposal, highlighting its potential to bring affordable housing and revitalize underused areas in the East Bronx. She shares her personal experience with the current state of East Tremont and her vision for its transformation.
- Emphasizes the need for taller buildings (R7 or R8) in certain areas to ensure setbacks, amenities, and public spaces
- Agrees with community concerns about potential impacts on single-family homes in specific locations
- Urges the subcommittee to consider the community board's conditions while supporting the overall revitalization plan
Diana Finch
4:15:22
Hi.
4:15:22
My name is Diana Finch.
4:15:23
I'm a resident of Community Board 11 for over 30 years.
4:15:26
And a board member of my local neighborhood association in the northwest quadrant of the district.
4:15:31
I'm in favor of the Metro North rezoning because it can bring much needed affordable housing to the area and will revitalize underused areas.
4:15:39
The largest and most significant being East Tremont from White Plains Road to Castle Hill Avenue.
4:15:45
I was introduced to this stretch of a major East Bronx thoroughfare in spring 2019 when my newly elected congressperson, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, organized in Earth Day cleanup along East Tremont.
4:15:57
For hours, we walk this deserted and extremely pedestrian unfriendly roadway, filling bags and bags of trash, everything from disintegrated bits of plastic to heavy abandoned car parts.
4:16:08
To see it reimagined as a thriving commercial and residential transportation, Nexus is wonderful.
4:16:14
I'm glad my community board voted in favor.
4:16:16
However, they only did so with conditions.
4:16:18
Once I hope the council pays close attention to.
4:16:21
I wish the board had appreciated that instead of demanding to cap everything at r 6 out of dislike of tall buildings, It's best to designate some large lots as r 7 or r 8 because the greater height requires setbacks, amenities, public space, green space, even parks.
4:16:38
Particularly at East Tremont and Bronxdale where currently there are none.
4:16:42
I do agree with the boards and residents concerns about 2 spots where new taller buildings might too closely impinge on single and 2 family homes and narrow streets.
4:16:51
At the east end at Kenbrook and Seminole and Morris Park at the West, the C8 and R6 development by Baker Street, both mentioned by counsel member Marmerado.
4:17:00
Overall, I'm very much in favor, and thank the sub committee for the opportunity to speak on this much needed revitalizing plan.
4:17:08
Thank you.