Councilmember Kamillah Hanks and the New York City Council announced a rezoning proposal for Staten Island’s North Shore on September 25, 2026. The plan introduces two new 14‑story apartment buildings slated for Bay Street, marking a shift toward higher‑density residential development along the waterfront.
The proposal seeks to convert the traditionally industrial North Shore district into a mixed‑use neighborhood with a stronger residential presence. Design concepts for the new towers draw on recent projects in neighboring New Jersey, aiming to blend the area’s waterfront character with contemporary housing forms.
By allowing taller structures on Bay Street, the rezoning would add a significant number of new apartments to an area that has long been dominated by warehouses and manufacturing facilities. City officials indicate the move is intended to expand housing options while taking advantage of the shoreline’s scenic views. The plan does not specify additional amenities, but the emphasis on design inspiration from nearby New Jersey developments suggests an intent to create a modern, livable environment.
The council’s announcement comes as part of a broader effort to address the city’s housing needs by repurposing underutilized industrial zones. The North Shore rezoning would require further review and approval by the full council before any construction could begin. Stakeholders, including local residents and businesses, are expected to provide input during the upcoming public hearing process.
If approved, the two 14‑story complexes would become prominent fixtures on Bay Street, signaling a new phase of development for Staten Island’s North Shore. The proposal reflects the council’s strategy of leveraging waterfront locations to increase housing supply while incorporating design influences from the region’s recent growth in neighboring states.