The Halsey Street Block Association is starting this petition in regards to the development of the Halsey Street Garage located at 424-440 that was recently purchased by Brookland Capital.

The development of this land is currently under review by the Community Board and the City's Landmarks Committee. As a Block Association we are concerned about the proposed scale of the project and its potential impact on the community. This garage has rich history as it was originally a horse stable. This structure as well as the rest of the block was recently landmarked.

As indicated by Brookland in a Block Association Meeting they plan to propose a project that will include 39 luxury apartments and no onsite parking. Plus there was indication of the desire to demolish the smaller garage adjacent to the main structure.

No final plans have been approved by the city or community board yet, however we feel it is important that community concerns are addressed as part of the approval process.

Our Block Association requests that this project not include any "set-backs", expanded height or width but remain within the existing building envelop to retain the historical aesthetic and protect the current landmark designation. This project should not allow for the demolishment of any adjoining structures that are currently landmarked.

The proposed development’s scale would harm not just the aesthetic of the surrounding areas, but will fundamentally change the local community collective efficacy that has traditionally been a stabilizing hallmark of the area.

Neighbors ability to know each other and work together to benefit the community is what has preserved Bedford Stuyvesant through the years. Now that the community is experiencing new investment and improvements, it is important to preserve the character of the area reflected in the low density and neighborliness of residents. The proposed development must be scaled back to fit the essential character of the surrounding area.