Public criticism of the Related Companies’ prospective 35-story, 32,000-square-foot residential project at the Ruppert Playground at 222 East 93rd Street could put a wrench in the firm’s plans, DNAinfo reported.
The community is claiming that Related, which was required to keep the playground a public space until 2008 because of a deal it made with the city, cannot begin construction on the project without a change in the site’s zoning. They say the City Council must review the project and hear community input.
“I think we have some good momentum to our fight [to keep the park]” said Council member Jessica Lappin, who represents the area. “I can’t really imagine a bigger change in public space use. It deserves a [uniform land use review procedure] hearing and for the community to have a say.”
Related controversially closed the park in September. [DNAinfo]