Queens, NY — October 2025.
The New York City Department of City Planning (DCP), in partnership with the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and the Department of Transportation (DOT), is advancing the OneLIC Neighborhood Plan — a comprehensive rezoning and neighborhood improvement initiative designed to transform Long Island City into a more connected, resilient, and equitable community.
The multi-faceted plan includes zoning updates, City map changes, disposition of City-owned properties, and new special zoning districts. It also implements a Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) program to ensure that a portion of all new units are permanently income-restricted, targeting low-, moderate-, and middle-income residents. Officials anticipate the plan will deliver 10,000 new housing units, over 3 million square feet of commercial space, and a mix of community facilities, retail, and industrial uses.
Waterfront access and resiliency are key components, with a continuous, publicly accessible waterfront planned from Gantry Plaza State Park to Queensbridge Park. Updates to waterfront zoning aim to improve flood resilience and support recreation, play, and community gatherings. Easements and acquisitions of privately held waterfront land will ensure connectivity and usability.
Supporting local businesses and industrial growth, the plan updates Long Island City’s manufacturing districts to allow a broader range of uses, including light industrial, commercial, and arts-related activities. Height and bulk regulations will be modernized to encourage architectural variety while preserving visual corridors to the waterfront.
The plan also calls for City-owned sites to be developed through competitive processes, bringing new housing, community facilities, retail, and commercial spaces. Infrastructure improvements, including new streets and street widenings, will enhance connectivity and access to light and air while supporting future growth.
The strategic goals of OneLIC are to:
- Create housing at a range of income levels.
- Establish a resilient, connected waterfront.
- Address infrastructure and climate resiliency needs.
- Support a diverse, thriving local economy.
- Improve neighborhood access to amenities and resources.
Following the City Planning Commission’s approval with modifications on September 3, 2025, the plan is now under City Council review (September 10 – October 29, 2025). Queens Borough President Donovan Richards endorsed the plan with conditions, including additional green space, new school seats, infrastructure improvements, and approximately $150 million in community investments, emphasizing the need to maintain affordability as the neighborhood grows.
The OneLIC plan is receiving strong support from local community boards and elected officials and aims to balance rapid development with community needs, creating a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future for Long Island City.
Adapted from NYC Department of City Planning materials and the Zoning Application Portal (ZAP) project page 2024Q0304.
