Brooklyn Heights library unveils conversion possibilities

Officials from the Brooklyn Public Library revealed seven proposals to convert the Brooklyn Heights Branch into a residential or mixed-use tower with a library on the ground floor.

The designs, each put together by different developer and architect teams, were required to include at least 20,000 square feet of library space and affordable housing at the 280 Cadman Plaza West site. They ranged in height from 285 feet to 551 feet, with five including retail space. The identities of the teams and value of the bids were not disclosed.

Some of the designs included rooftop parks or cafes, but all were topped with high-rise condominiums. After completion, the lower-level library will remain under city ownership and will be open seven days a week with additional space for collections, technology, programs and quiet study available, library executives told Brownstoner.

The redevelopment proposal has been slammed by residents and local elected officials, who object to the move as a sale of public assets, the Wall Street Journal reported. [Brownstoner] and [WSJ] — Julie Strickland