PlanNYC: Columbia University Expansion

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Columbia University Expansion

Over the next fifteen to twenty years, Columbia University plans to develop about 17 additional acres near its 36-acre campus in order to meet a pressing need for space. In order to proceed, Columbia University requested a zoning change for the area, which was granted by the City Council in December 2007. In addition, Columbia is seeking to acquire all of the land on which it plans to build, possibly through the use of eminent domain, which would be exercised by the State.

Project supporters argue that Columbia University has much less space per student than its peer universities and must expand; that the expansion creates many more jobs than it displaces; and that the university has pursued the project with the community's interests in mind. Project opponents argue that the project will eliminate or displace key manufacturing jobs in Manhattanville; that the up-zoning will ruin the scale of the Manhattanville neighborhood; and that the university is working with the state to condemn private property that it cannot acquire on the market.

To help advocate for additional benefits to the community from the proposed development, the community formed the West Harlem Development Corporation, a Local Development Corporation, to negotiate a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with Columbia. The two parties have not yet reached on a comprehensive agreement, however, they have agreed on an outline for a CBA. The outline commits Columbia to spending $150 million over the next 12 years. Portions of that funding would go towards a community-based school run by Teachers College, as well as funding for affordable housing and legal aid services. In addition to the CBA, Columbia is still negotiating with three landowners in the area regarding the sale of property on which the University plans to build.

Before the City Council approved the rezoning, Manhattan’s Community Board 9 rejected the proposal, and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer approved the proposal. The City Planning Commission also approved Columbia’s proposal, while at the same time approving Manhattan Community Board 9’s 197a community planning proposal. On the same day that the City Council approved Columbia’s rezoning request, the Council also approved CB9’s 197a plan. The rezoning plan has the force of law, while the 197a does not.

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Suit Challenging Columbia’s FEIS Thrown Out

Friday, September 26, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Nick Sprayregen’s case against Columbia University and New York City has been dismissed. Sprayregen is one of two business owners refusing to sell his property to Columbia for the school’s expansion. The New York City Department of City Planning approved Columbia’s Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) but Sprayregan’s suit claimed that an area that would run from 125th Street to 133rd Street and from Broadway to 12th Avenue and extend seven stories underground had not been adequately reviewed with regards to earthquakes and flooding. Columbia plans to use the area for business school programs, storage facilities, scientific research laboratories, and an MTA bus depot. State Supreme Court Justice found that the city “gave due consideration to pertinent environmental factors,” validating the FEIS.

Control Of State Senate Could Influence Use of Eminent Domain

Monday, September 22, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: General

If the Democrats take control of the New York State Senate in the November election, some believe that they will push to end the use of eminent domain. This would have particular implications for the expansion of Columbia University’s campus in Harlem, the Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn, and Mayor Bloomberg’s plan to redevelop Willets Point in Queens. Eminent domain has been a factor in all three projects. 42 states have revised their eminent domain laws since the landmark 2005 Kelo v. City of New London Supreme Court ruling and Michael Rikon, a land-use attorney, stated that it will difficult to change New York State’s eminent domain laws.

Two Holdout Businesses Stand In Way Of Columbia Expansion

Saturday, September 20, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: General

Gurnam Singh, owner of two gas stations, and Nicholas Sprayregen, owner of Tuck-It-Away moving and storage, are the last two Manhattanville property owners who have refused to sell their land to Columbia University to facilitate its plans for a 17-acre $6.3 billion campus expansion. In July the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) declared the area blighted which may aid Columbia in using eminent domain to force the owners to sell their property. Area residents and community leaders have sided with Singh and Sprayregen in public hearings and both owners are utilizing legal counsel their discussions with the school.

Use of Eminent Domain for Columbia Expansion Debated at ESDC Public Hearing

Friday, September 05, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: General

The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) held a public hearing Tuesday and Thursday in preparation for making its decision on whether to allow Columbia University to invoke eminent domain for its expansion plans. Under the plan, much of the area between Broadway and 12th Avenue and 125th and 133rd Streets would be demolished. Community activists and residents delivered testimony bemoaning the use of eminent domain to force out businesses which have been unwilling to vacate. Supporters of the expansion mostly had business ties to Columbia University and spoke of job creation and the University's relationship with the surrounding community. Although no members of the ESDC Board attended the hearing, which according to the ESDC is common practice, they will make the final decision on whether the use eminent domain will be permitted.

Columbia Site Considered Blighted by ESDC

Thursday, July 17, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

The 17-acre site where Columbia University plans to expand is considered blighted by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC), a declaration that is needed in order to proceed with the use of eminent domain to take two properties whose owners have not yet agreed to sell. Opponents of the expansion and the courts are questioning the decision by the State to use the same consulting firm, AKRF, which did an environmental study of the area for the school. A public hearing is expected in September on the topic, according to the ESDC.

Court Orders ESDC to Release Documents Relating to Columbia Expansion

Tuesday, July 15, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Politics & Government

The Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) was instructed to make documents involving the Columbia University expansion available to the public. On Tuesday, a state appellate court reached this decision, which supports Justice Shirley Werner Kornreich's ruling in the State Supreme Court in June 2007. In 2007 the court ruled that it was a conflict of interest for the ESDC to employ a consultant who also worked for Columbia University and therefore communication documents between ESDC and the consultant ought to be released to the public. The ESDC hired the consultant to determine whether the State’s use of eminent domain to obtain property for Columbia was within their right. The appellate court ruled that some of these documents were excused from public disclosure. Members of the West Harlem Business Group, an organization opposed to the university’s expansion, have been trying to obtain these documents for a while and are pleased with the appellate court’s decision.

Columbia Purchases Property in Footprint of Expansion

Friday, July 11, 2008 | The Real Deal | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University bought a key property in the footprint of its planned expansion. The property, located at 2293 12th Avenue, was owned by the Nebraska Meat Corporation. The price tag for the transaction was $6.968 million.

Another Landowner Makes a Deal with Columbia

Wednesday, June 11, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

A landowner, previously holding out against Columbia's expansion, made a deal with the university for her property. Now that Ms. Whitman has agreed to trade her property for another property located in Washington Heights, only two landowners remain in the planned expansion area. Whitman formerly stated she would force Columbia to use eminent domain in order to move, even after the University offered $4 million for the building her moving and storage business is located in. She took a deal yesterday including the property in Washington Heights as well as a newly constructed building to be paid for by Columbia on the site.

Opponents Worry About Use of Eminent Domain in Columbia’s Expansion

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Columbia's expansion is set to begin in Manhattanville, but three business owners, who own 10 percent of the land in the footprint of the expansion, have yet to strike a deal with the University to sell their properties. Community members are concerned that the State will deem the neighborhood blighted in order to allow the State to use eminent domain to acquire those properties. Columbia states they still hope to reach deals with these business owners. Opponents of the expansion believe that use of the State’s eminent domain power would be inappropriate because Columbia is a private institution.

CBA Making Headway in Manhattanville

Monday, May 05, 2008 | | Topic: Finance

The West Harlem Local Development Corporation says that it has been making progress towards a finalized community benefits agreement (CBA) with Columbia University over the past 4 months. While there is a memorandum of understanding in place involving funding from the university for the community, many have believed this to be a non-binding deal. With a community benefits agreement specifics on where funding is coming from and when it will be received as well as details on the number of jobs created are all being discussed at length by both parties. No timeline for its completion was given.

Manhattanville Restaurant Relocation Negotiations Halted Over Money Disputes

Thursday, April 17, 2008 | | Topic: Land Use

Ramon Diaz, the owner of a restaurant, bakery and tapas bar on 125th Street and Broadway, claims that Columbia University is unwilling to negotiate the relocation of his business. The owner of Floridita has been disputing a charge from Columbia that he owes at least $120,000 in overdue rent, real estate tax, and other charges with the University. Diaz claims that mistakes in invoicing are to blame. Representatives from Columbia have consistently said that they want to keep Floridita in the Manhattanville area.

Business Owner in Columbia Expansion Wants Building Moved

Thursday, April 03, 2008 | AM New York | Topic: Land Use

Anne Whitman, owner of a moving company in Harlem, is asking Columbia University to move her business’s historic structure four blocks south, instead of forcing her to sell the building. The building is historic, as it was first used to help the dairy processing plants nearby. Some believe that it is not unfeasible to relocate a structure and would be a win-win situation for Whitman and Columbia.

Manhattanville Business Owner Has Special Request for Columbia

Thursday, April 03, 2008 | | Topic: General

Anne Whitman, the owner of a moving and storage company located in the historic Sheffield Farms Stable in Manhattanville, is requesting that Columbia University move her building several blocks south. The two parties were negotiating a sale of the building to Columbia, but Whitman has decided that she would rather the University relocate the building. The seven-story structure is listed on the State Register of Historic Places, but such a move would mean it would be taken off the list. There have been no estimates of the cost of this procedure. Representatives from the University say this request is implausible.

Governor Could Be Key in Columbia Expansion Plans

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

Governor David Paterson, a graduate of Columbia and a Harlem native, could play a key role in facilitating or hampering Columbia’s plans for expansion if eminent domain becomes an issue. While Paterson called for a moratorium on the use of eminent domain in 2005, it is not clear what his policy will be as Governor. Columbia is hopeful that they will not have to use eminent domain, but three property owners have yet to agree to a deal with the University.

Petition to Stop Columbia Expansion Cites Possible Terror Risk

Friday, March 28, 2008 | New York Daily News | Topic: General

Nick Sprayregen, a West Harlem businessman, has filed a petition to stop Columbia from continuing their plans to expand into West Harlem. His petition cites potential problems with the large underground space known as "the bathtub" that Columbia plans to build to house generators and storage for biohazard labs. Among other concerns, Sprayregen contends that these uses may make the development a target for terrorists.

Local Business Sues Columbia Over Expansion's Potential Environmental Risks

Thursday, March 27, 2008 | NY1 | Topic: Politics & Government

A local business has filed a lawsuit about the environmental impact of the Columbia University expansion. The suit, by “Tuck it Away” Storage, argues that excavation needed for the development presents a risk of flooding, which could release hazardous materials into public streets. Columbia responded that its environmental review process was thorough.

West Harlem Business Owner Continues Fight Against Columbia University Expansion

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: General

Nick Sprayregen, a business owner in West Harlem whose property may be taken by eminent domain, filed a lawsuit against Columbia University and the City of New York on Wednesday. Sprayregen is opposing the rezoning proposal, which would allow the University to expand into West Harlem, claiming that the City did not completely evaluate the environmental implications of certain proposals made by the University. Lawyers Norman Siegel and Steve Silverberg will be arguing Sprayregen’s claims in court.

Real Estate Community Concerned that Paterson May Oppose the Use of Eminent Domain

Friday, March 14, 2008 | New York Sun | Topic: Politics & Government

Several stakeholders of the real estate community are concerned that when Lt. Governor David Paterson assumes the governor position he may oppose the use of eminent domain on high-profile developments. According to the New York Sun, when Patterson was state Senate Leader he rallied for a statewide moratorium on the use of eminent domain. Potential developments that could be affected if Patterson opposes the use of eminent domain for economic development is Columbia University Expansion, Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn, and Shea Stadium in Willets Point Queens. No official statement by Patterson’s office on the subject matter has been released.

Harlem Residents Fight Manhattanville Architectural Plans

Monday, February 25, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Urban Design & Architecture

Several residents have voiced their concern that the design concepts of Columbia University’s Manhattanville expansion will not reflect the history and architecture of the surrounding Harlem area. Some community members and students feel that the “glass and steel” aspects of the new design do not reflect the area’s history. Columbia says that its plans will include architectural links between old and new architecture.

Columbia Closes Deal on Housing for Displaced Residents

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Housing

Columbia University purchased a site on 148th Street and Broadway for $20 million that will serve as housing for residents of Manhattanville that will be directly displaced by the University’s expansion. The 42 units on the site will be affordable housing and will be apart of the city’s Tenant Interim Lease Program. Columbia’s expansion is expected to directly displace 132 residents and the University is committed to providing new housing for those families. However, residents who may be forced out of their neighborhood that are not directly in the footprint of the expansion may not get any help in securing new housing.

Cotton Club Will Stay in Manhattanville

Tuesday, January 29, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

The Cotton Club, Manhantanville’s historic dance and jazz club that has been a staple of the area for years, will remain despite Columbia’s expansion plans. A resolution drafted by the Landmarks Committee of Community Board 9 urged the city’s Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) to designate the Cotton Club a landmark. Shortly after, Columbia University announced that the night club would not be affected by their expansion.

Decisions Still Abundant for Columbia Officials

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Although the City Council made few changes to Columbia’s 197-c plan, Columbia University is still working to ensure that their expansion into Manhantanville is everything they wanted. While the University has backed down from building a bio-tech lab on the 4th floor of a building, they are strongly considering building the lab on the 3rd floor. Also, Columbia is hoping to move most of its transportation infrastructure underground. However, some are concerned about extensive flooding in the system and are urging Columbia to seek a 3rd party assessment before continuing to pursue this option.

Columbia Continues to Negotiate with Three Land Owners

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Three different landowners within the Columbia University expansion area continue to hold out but remain in negotiation with the university. One owner, Nick Sprayregen, has proposed a land swap with Columbia. Another land owner, Anne Whitman, operates Hudson Moving and Storage. A final site is the Singh family gas station located on 129th Street. Whitman and Sprayregen are the only remaining members of the West Harlem Business Group that started with six local businesses opposed to the expansion.

Details of Community Benefits Agreement Not Final

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

Details remain uncertain about the community benefits that will be required by Columbia University in their expansion efforts. The University and the Local Development Corporation (LDC) tasked with hashing out a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) instead agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which is not legally binding. The LDC is in the process of developing a binding CBA that finalizes what was agreed to in the MOU. Many in the community do not trust the LDC and are fearful that they will not be able to work out a deal that will have benefits to the community. Some members of the LDC have resigned as a result of community distrust of their intentions. A representative from the LDC said that community members should be assured that the “people on the LDC are 110-percent committed to protecting the community that they represent.”

Preservationists Continue to Fight Columbia Expansion

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

Despite the City Council’s approval of the Columbia expansion plan, opponents continue their fight to stop it. The Coalition to Preserve Community and Columbia’s Student Coalition on Expansion and Gentrification are two groups that will continue to fight the plan by informing the community of the plan’s status, working at the state level to block the use of eminent domain, and by asking donors and contributors of the expansion plan to withdraw their financial support.

Growth and Expansion in Harlem Receives Mixed Reviews

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Economic Development

While Columbia’s expansion plan was just recently approved by the City Council, growth and development in Harlem is already occurring in anticipation of what the community will become. Some are concerned that this development has already displaced residents and changed the character of the neighborhood. Many are pushing for more affordable housing in the area, which Columbia has already pledged to contribute $20 million toward. Columbia has said that its expansion plans are not the reason for such widespread growth in Harlem but say that what is happening in Harlem is happening all around New York City. Initiatives of the Department of City Planning, such as the rezoning of 125th Street, are also catalysts for new development.

Both Sides of Columbia Expansion Dispute Public Approval

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Disclosure of money that Columbia University spent on lobbyists in an effort to garner public support in its expansion efforts has some community members upset that that money should have been used to actually help the surrounding community. However, some opposed to the plan have also spent money hiring lobbyists to argue their case, including Nick Sprayregen. Columbia contends that the lobbyists were not the reason the plan was approved by the City Council but instead the “merits of the idea” were the cause.

Property Owner Readies for Legal Battle With Columbia

Friday, January 11, 2008 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

Nick Sprayregen is the owner of vast swaths of property in Manhattanville and is leading the fight against Columbia University’s expansion plans. Sprayregen, a multimillionaire who took over his family’s storage business in Harlem 18 years ago, is readying for an extensive and expensive legal battle with Columbia over the potential use of eminent domain for their expansion. Opposing Columbia’s plan in part because it is a private institution supposedly taking advantage of the less fortunate, Sprayregen estimates that he will spend over $2 million of his fortune in fighting Columbia. He is working with Norman Siegel, a lawyer known for his work on civil liberties, in taking on Columbia.

Need for Space Determined Columbia’s Plan

Friday, December 21, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Economic Development

The need for more space with opportunties for scientific research has been the overarching reason cited by Columbia University officials in their efforts to expand its campus into Manhattanville. Lee Bollinger, President of the University, has argued that without increased space the school would lose its edge to competitors such as Harvard and Princeton, institutions which boast large campus spaces. University officials hope that the redevelopment will begin in the coming year and have said that the new campus will be designed more like NYU’s main campus core in the Village.

More Details on Benefits Package Negotiated Between Columbia and Community

Thursday, December 20, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Economic Development

As part of Columbia’s recently approved expansion plan, the University has agreed to provide the community with a benefits package worth an estimated $150 million. The legal memorandum of agreement was signed by officials from both Columbia and the West Harlem Local Development Corporation ahead of Wednesday’s City Council vote. Under the agreement, Columbia will provide $76 million for education, health and job training programs that have yet to be determined, a K-8 public school run by Columbia’s Teachers College, $24 million for affordable housing, and $20 million for area enhancements. This is in addition to the $150 million the city has pledged for affordable housing. While some members of the LDC touted the agreement as an achievement, others believe that the amount is not enough to compensate for the potential use of eminent domain and inevitable neighborhood alterations. This includes several LDC members who have resigned from the organization in response to what they believe to be a questionable and clandestine decision-making process.

Concerns Grow Over Columbia's Use of Eminent Domain

Thursday, December 20, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

Many claim that Columbia’s approved expansion plan will create legal conflicts over the use of eminent domain. Current business owners within the area of expansion have indicated that they will challenge any use of eminent domain. Columbia plans on using the powers of eminent domain if an agreement cannot be reached.  

City Council Approves Columbia Expansion

Thursday, December 20, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

The City Council approved Columbia University’s 17-acre mixed-use expansion plan on Wednesday night. It will include laboratories, dormitories, open space, public secondary school, and create 6,000 jobs. As part of the community benefits agreement Columbia may be paying $150 million towards the development of low and moderate income housing and increasing educational programs. Some feel that the decision made by the City Council will results in several lawsuits. Some commercial owners remain concerned about the use of eminent domain.

Columbia University and West Harlem LDC Reach Compromise for CBA

Wednesday, December 19, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

Columbia University and the West Harlem Local Development Corporation (LDC) reached an agreement last night for a community benefits agreement (CBA) of $150 million. The memorandum of understanding stating these terms will be signed by both Columbia and LDC representatives Wednesday morning prior of the City Council vote on Columbia’s 197-a plan taking place in the evening. While details of the CBA have not yet been determined, this memorandum represents an “enforceable document.” Representatives of the LDC were hoping for a $250 million agreement, but view the compromise as a “starting point to move forward.”

City Council to Vote on Columbia Plan on Wednesday

Tuesday, December 18, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

The Coalition to Preserve Community, an anti-expansion group, announced on Monday that the City Council would vote on Columbia University’s 197-c expansion plan on Wednesday, December 19. The vote had been expected to take place in the middle of January. The City Council website did not have any information about when the vote was taking place. It was unclear whether the Council would also vote on Community Board 9’s rival 197-a.

Harlem Community Group Asks for $247 Million in Benefits

Tuesday, December 18, 2007 | New York Observer | Topic: Economic Development

In anticipation of tomorrow’s City Council vote on the Columbia expansion plan, the West Harlem Local Development Corporation (WHLDC) is negotiating with the University over a community benefits agreement. One source says that the WHLDC started by asking for $247 million, while Columbia has not offered more than $32.5 million.

Columbia and Sprayregen Begin Discussion Of Building Swap

Friday, December 14, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Land Use

Storage Building owner Nick Sprayregen, a property owner in the proposed 17 acre Columbia expansion plan and one of the expansion’s major opponents, met with University officials to discuss a plan that would swap land between the two. Sprayegen currently owns three buildings that are in the heart of the expansion. The University owns two buildings that are close to some of Sprayregen’s other properties and outside of their expansion plans. An exchange of these buildings would prevent Columbia from undergoing expensive legal battle to acquire the property.

Columbia Reconsiders Demolishing Cotton Club

Thursday, December 13, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

As the City Council is considering Columbia’s rezoning request for the Harlem community, Columbia University has agreed to preserve the Cotton Club on 125th Street. Originally, Columbia planned to demolish the 29 year-old club and convert it into a small corner park.

Columbia’s Proposal Will Not Use Eminent Domain

Thursday, December 13, 2007 | New York Daily News | Topic: Land Use

With over 200 people in attendance, Columbia University officials told the City Council on Wednesday that they will not use eminent domain or condemnation against residential uses. In addition, none of Columbia’s new buildings will be gated. The terms of the community benefits agreement, which includes Columbia’s pledge to construct or preserve affordable housing, still remain uncertain. The City Council has until January 15th to review and make a final decision on Columbia’s rezoning request.

City Council Subcommittee Expected to Debate Columbia Plans

Monday, December 10, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Politics & Government

The City Council’s Planning, Dispositions & Concessions and Zoning & Franchises Subcommittee is expected to debate both Columbia’s 197-c plan and Community Board 9’s 197-a plan. Considering that a good portion of the work of the City Council is done at subcommittee level, Wednesday’s hearing could be very telling. It is unclear how the City Councilmembers that represent the effected area will vote. Councilmember Robert Jackson of West Harlem has already expressed support for the Community Board’s197-a but has not decided on Columbia’s plan yet. Councilmember Inez Dickens of Harlem has not publicly stated her position on either plan. It is expected that a Community Benefits Agreement will be finalized before the City Council votes on the plans. The City Council vote, expected in the first two weeks in January, is one of the last steps in the city’s ULURP process. The City Planning Commission approved a modified 197-c as well as a modified 197-a.

Panel Criticizes Columbia’s Use of Community Benefit Agreement

Wednesday, December 05, 2007 | New York Observer | Topic: Politics & Government

At a panel discussion about development in New York City, several panelists criticized the increasing use of community benefit agreements (CBAs) for controversial developments. Panelists pointed to the Columbia expansion project, claiming that the formation of the West Harlem Local Development Corporation basically cut off any other community members from negotiating with the University. Panelists suggested that the city or state create uniform policies regarding affordable housing and other controversial topics, taking them out of the hands of CBAs.

Preservationists Hope to Fight Columbia Expansion

Wednesday, December 05, 2007 | Newsday.com | Topic: Historic Preservation & Landmarks

Preservationists of Manhattanville intend to seek landmark status for some of the buildings implicated in Columbia University's expansion plan. While Columbia already owns many properties in the neighborhood and promises not to tear them down, it has not sought landmark status for any of them. Preservationists fear that these assertions will not hold in the future.

Coalition Rallies against Columbia Plan and West Harlem LDC

Friday, November 30, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Economic Development

The Coalition to Preserve Community rallied against possible usage of eminent domain in Columbia’s expansion as well as against the West Harlem Local Development Corporation (LDC). While the LDC was created to negotiate community benefits agreements with Columbia, three former members, who resigned, claim that the group has become motivated by political influence. A current member of the LDC said that the closed-door policy is necessary for such negotiations and that transparency has been allowed whenever possible. The member added that input from elected officials is important.

Protesters Steadfast after CPC Approves Columbia's Plan

Friday, November 30, 2007 | NY1 | Topic: Land Use

Following the City Planning Commission’s (CPC) approval of Columbia University’s 17 acre expansion proposal, some residents and local officials fired back in protest over the contentious plan. Many community members remain confident that the expansion will not occur despite CPC’s approval, citing the potential use of eminent domain as a major point of concern. CPC Chairwoman Amanda Burden contends that changes were made that would scale down two buildings and also provide additional public space for the community. As part of the city’s ULURP process, the City Council must now vote on the plan. Council Member Robert Jackson, who represents the area, is in support of the plan. The City Council is not expected to vote until 2008.

City Planning Commission Gives OK to Columbia Expansion

Tuesday, November 27, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

After a contentious public hearing, the City Planning Commission approved Columbia University's Manhattanville expansion plan, a necessary step in the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP). The Planning Commission also approved Community Board 9's Section 197a rezoning plan, meaning the two plans must be reconciled. Before approval, the Commission made some changes to Columbia’s plan, including lowering the height of some buildings and eliminating two research buildings and adding housing in their place. The project will now be sent to the City Council for approval. The City Council will hold a public hearing on the plan and will vote on the project in January.

CPC Unlikely to Deal with Eminent Domain in Columbia Expansion

Monday, November 26, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

The City Planning Commission (CPC) is expected to vote on Columbia’s 17-acre expansion today but some believe they will not make any decisions on the question of eminent domain. There are four private land owners in the expansion area that have refused to sell to Columbia. The University has said that it does not want the state to use eminent domain to acquire land and the Chairwoman of the City Planning Commission, Amanda Burden, has said in the past that questions of eminent domain should be decided by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC). Some critics believe that the CPC must consider the role of eminent domain in this case rather than leaving it up to the state.

City Planning Vote on Columbia Expansion Set for Nov. 26th

Friday, November 23, 2007 | Bloomberg.com | Topic: Land Use

The City Planning Commission (CPC) is expected to vote on the Columbia expansion plan on November 26th. Some believe that the CPC will vote in favor of Columbia’s plan, which is supported by the Borough President but opposed by the local Community Board. The 17-acre proposal has been opposed by many neighborhood residents who say it will cost the area jobs and destroy part of the culture and history that is Harlem. Those who believe that the plan will pass cite partially as reasons Columbia’s importance to New York City and the University’s need for expansion in order to remain competitive. The CPC will pass on their vote to the City Council for final approval. If Columbia gets the rezoning it is asking for, construction is expected to begin in the next year. Some in the community may decide to sue over environmental concerns and the use of eminent domain.

Manhattanville Land Swap Proposed

Wednesday, November 21, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Nick Sprayregen, the second largest land owner in the Manhattanville area and one of Columbia's major obstacles, has sent a letter to the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) proposing a land swap with Columbia University. Sprayregen stated that he would be willing to trade his properties for land further east. Columbia is waiting for Sprayregen to formally propose the property trade to it in order for it to address the plan.

Harlem Wants More Money for Affordable Housing from Columbia

Thursday, November 15, 2007 | | Topic: Land Use

In brokering a Community Benefits Agreement with Columbia University, the local development corporation is suggesting Columbia put forth over $100 million for affordable housing in Harlem. Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer had previously worked out an agreement that Columbia would give $20 million for affordable housing. The affordable housing piece is one of the contentious items relating to Columbia expansion that interested parties hope to work out before the City Council breaks for the year on December 17th.

Proposal to Protect Residents Affected by Columbia Expansion

Wednesday, November 07, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Housing

The Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and West Harlem Group Assistance have agreed to decline support for any tenant displacement unless 100% of tenants affected by the Columbia University Manhattanville expansion agree to the move. They also maintain that residents, and not Columbia, should take over buildings currently under construction. Opponents of this proposal argue that it conflicts with Community Board 9's 197-a plan to ensure Columbia's integration with the community.

Positions of Some Elected Officials Remain Unclear for Columbia Expansion

Friday, November 02, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

As the ULURP process continues for plans to expand Columbia University into Manhantanville, many elected officials have remained silent on their views with an exception of State Senator Bill Perkins (D-West Harlem) who continues to remain a vocal opponent of Columbia's plan. Council members Robert Jackson (D-Harlem) and Inez Dickens (D-Central Harlem) will eventually have to take a position when the plan is voted on by the City Council. It is unclear if they will support the proposal or not. Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer has endorsed the Columbia plan; Community Board 9 voted against the plan.

Community Board Debates Alternative to Columbia's Expansion Plans

Friday, October 19, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Last month, Community Board 9 rejected by a close vote businessman Nick Sprayregen’s development proposals for Manhattanville, although the plan is still undergoing formal review. Sprayregen’s plan proposes altering the area’s zoning from fully manufacturing to mixed commercial and residential. According to the Community Board, the plan is not fully consistent with their 197-a, primarily because of affordable housing. Sprayregen, who owns the largest amount of private property in the area of the proposed expansion, vows that he will continue pushing his proposal through the formal review system. Under the city’s land use process, the plan is currently undergoing a formal review by the Borough President.

Student Editorial Board Urges Involvement in Columbia Expansion

Friday, October 05, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

The Editorial Board of the Columbia Daily Spectator, Columbia’s student-run newspaper, is urging the student body of Columbia University to become more actively engaged in expansion plan discussions to ensure that community concerns are met and undergraduate needs are adhered to. The Board called on the Columbia College Student Council Committee on Manhattanville Expansion to educate students on the expansion and bring in objective voices on both sides of the debate. Although the expansion will take over thirty years to complete, the paper argues that it is the responsibility of the current student body to make sure the University is advocating for the betterment of its students and the community at large.

Columbia, CB9 Present Plans to DCP

Thursday, October 04, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Wednesday evening marked a step in the on-going ULURP Process for DCP’s approval of Columbia University’s expansion plan. Columbia President Lee Bollinger, CB9 Chair Jordi Reyes-Montblanc, Pratt Institute Urban Planner Ron Shiffman, and several community members delivered testimonies to City Planning. DCP questioned Columbia’s commitment to providing the Harlem community with affordable housing. “Not only would I expect the housing would be the same or better quality, but I would expect the rents would be the same,” declared Commissioner Angela Battaglia. The City Planning Commission will make their final decision on the project in late November.

Columbia's Expansion Remains Contentious; Housing at Issue

Monday, October 01, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

What was supposed to be a tour of Manhattanville to celebrate the life and work of Jane Jacobs became a venue for community activists and residents to continue to express their opposition to Columbia's expansion. Some residents argued that Columbia's plan will not bring as much affordable housing as promised. Also, there is a concern among locals that eminent domain should not be used to choose one private development over another, especially when the development fails to provide public open space.

Mayor Bloomberg Endorses Columbia Plan

Thursday, September 27, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Mayor Bloomberg announced support for Columbia’s highly debated expansion plan yesterday. The mayor's support for the university's 17-acre proposal precedes the beginning of city's formal land use process. Bloomberg cited Columbia as one of the city’s “great resources,” and “one of the great universities in the world” in his endorsement.

Borough President, University President Agree on Columbia Expansion

Thursday, September 27, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer announced his support for Columbia’s expansion into West Harlem on Wednesday. Columbia promises to create a $20 million affordable housing fund, establish a new park at 125th street, build structures that are Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified, and donate money for playground equipment at a local middle school. Community Board 9 continues to voice concerns with the plan. The City Planning Commission and the City Council will evaluate Columbia’s proposal and both entities must endorse it in order for the University to proceed.

DCP Hopes to Rezone West Harlem

Wednesday, September 26, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

Amanda Burden, commissioner of the Department of City Planning, announced in a letter to Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer that the City is looking to rezone the West Harlem neighborhood. While the letter did not give a specific plan for the rezoning, it expressed Burden’s recognition of a need for a long-term vision for the area’s growth. The letter also articulated that the rezoning would not affect Columbia’s proposed expansion plan. This rezoning may begin the public review process as early as June 2008.

197-c Plan Rejected by Community Board in Manhattanville

Friday, September 21, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Manhattan Community Board 9 rejected a 197-c rezoning plan for the largest property owner in the footprint of the proposed Columbia University expansion. The rezoning plan would have changed the current zoning from solely manufacturing to a mix of residential and retail, thereby allowing the developer to build taller buildings. Some board members expressed concern about the language of the plan, which they believe violates key community concerns like affordable housing and height restrictions on buildings.

Columbia Finds New Space for Tenant Interim Lease Apartments

Friday, September 21, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University announced that it has purchased a location to move residents currently living in Tenant Interim Lease (TIL) apartments in the Manhattanville area where the university hopes to expand its campus. Specifics were not provided by Columbia as to where the property is and many expressed disappointment that Columbia did not contact any of the residents about the new location. The next step in the Columbia expansion project is expected next Wednesday when Borough President Scott Stringer is set to formally weigh in on the rezoning.

Columbia Accused of Using Financial Incentives to Gain Support

Wednesday, September 19, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Some West Harlem community members are accusing Columbia of bribing supporters. They claim the Columbia expansion supporters outside West Harlem’s Community Board 9 meeting last month were patients from an East Harlem drug-rehab clinic that relies on the support of Harlem politicians, many of whom support the Columbia expansion. There are also claims that these supporters were directly paid to be there and that politicians are being influenced by Columbia’s campaign donations. While Harlem politicians deny any occurrence of bribing, their support for the expansion has not convinced Community Board 9 to back Columbia.

Awaiting ESDC’s Blight Study of Manhattanville

Wednesday, September 19, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University is currently awaiting the state-run Empire State Development Corporation’s (ESDC) decision as to whether it should exercise eminent domain, and thus allow Columbia to continue with its Manhattanville expansion plans. The ESDC’s decision rests on whether the area is deemed “blighted.” The consulting firm AKRF has been hired by Columbia to make this determination as well as promote its plan with city officials. Questioning whether AKRF can act as independent arbiter for the ESDC, some in the community have sued the ESDC and have received a judgment in their favor. The ESDC’s appeal of that decision will not be heard until December.

Local Opposition to Columbia’s Expansion Still Exists

Monday, September 17, 2007 | NY1 | Topic: Economic Development

Ann Whitman, the owner of Hudson Moving and Storage on Broadway and 130th Street, continues to hold out against Columbia University’s plans to develop 17 acres in West Harlem. She joins other residents and small business owners in maintaining that Columbia is acting like a “bully.” However, politicians like former Major David Dinkins insist that if the area is to be developed, Columbia should be the one to do it.

Borough President Expresses Concerns with Expansion Plan

Monday, September 17, 2007 | Columbia Daily Spectator | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University may have to make significant changes to their Manhattanville expansion proposal if it expects to gain the support of Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer. Community Board 9 has demanded that Columbia make at least ten different changes to its plan before it would be accepted. Stringer’s concerns mimic many of those same demands. Official suggestions from Stringer, which are expected to be made in the next month, are the next step in the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure. In addition to Stringer’s comments on Columbia’s expansion, he also released his own plans for a special zoning district in West Harlem.

Full Community Board Says No to Columbia Rezoning Plan

Tuesday, August 21, 2007 | Metro New York | Topic: Politics & Government

Manhattan Community Board 9 voted 31-2 against a rezoning plan by Columbia University to expand its campus into 17 acres of West Harlem unless certain conditions are added to the proposal. The vote was somewhat expected given that the community board’s land use committee voted against the measure last week. Columbia’s President, Lee Bollinger, promised to work with a local development corporation to craft a community benefits agreement (CBA) amenable to the community. The 31-2 vote is non-binding as only the City Council and City Planning Commission can take a binding vote on the matter.

CB9 Land Use Committee Rejects Columbia’s Expansion Plan

Thursday, August 16, 2007 | The Real Estate, New York Observer | Topic: Politics & Government

The land use committee of Community Board 9 rejected Columbia University’s plan to expand into the Manhattanville neighborhood. The hearing, which was well attended, drew significant opposition. In particular, local groups argued that the plan could not go forward unless the university promised low-income housing and more action on issues related to environmental sustainability. The full committee vote, which is non-binding, is expected on Monday.

Community Board to Vote on Columbia Expansion Plan

Wednesday, August 15, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University’s expansion plan will be voted on tonight by Community Board 9. The board is expected to reject the plan due to community opposition to several aspects of the plan, including the possible future use of eminent domain. A rejection of the plan at this time is expected to create pressure to work with the community on a community benefits agreement, possibly including financial support from Columbia for affordable housing or other community projects.

Columbia Gains Additional Land

Tuesday, August 07, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Economic Development

Columbia has agreed to buy property from one of the three remaining major private landowners. The purchase has increased Columbia’s control of land in West Harlem to 69%. The remaining major landowners are passionate opponents to the expansion.

Columbia To Study Penn for Expansion Ideas?

Wednesday, August 01, 2007 | Gothamist | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University may spend some time studying the success of the University of Pennsylvania’s development process as it works to smooth out its expansion plans with the local community. Penn was an active participant in the transformation of its surrounding neighborhood over the past decade, and was able to successfully expand its footprint. However, former Penn president Rodin says her discussions with Columbia president Bollinger have not been extensive.

Columbia Drives Out Auto Mechanics

Tuesday, July 31, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Economic Development

Fifteen auto mechanics were the first to suffer the consequences of Columbia’s expansion plan after their shop was shut down on Monday, July 30th. The building that housed the shop, bounded by 135th and 133rd streets, Broadway and the Hudson, is owned by Columbia.

Manhattanville Prepares for Columbia Expansion

Sunday, July 22, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University's 17-acre expansion plan into its surrounding Manhattanville neighborhood touches on delicate issues of history, race, and class. Despite Columbia's promise of thousands of jobs, many local residents harbor harsh feelings toward the university. Some point to a contentious decision by Columbia in 1968 to propose a university gym in Morningside Park. Columbia finished its rezoning application last month and expects to finish the entire plan in 2030.

Columbia Will Not Use Eminent Domain to Evict Residents for Expansion

Friday, July 13, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Land Use

Columbia University may have reduced some of the opposition to its expansion plans yesterday, as it announced that it will not use eminent domain to evict residents in the area it would like to acquire. However, the university may still attempt to use eminent domain to evict commercial business. In most cases Columbia will attempt to negotiate with residential and commercial owners in order to purchase the property.

Expansion Plan Presented by Columbia

Tuesday, July 10, 2007 | WNYC | Topic: Economic Development

Columbia University presented its expansion plan to the city planning commission. The plan, which would allow Columbia to control a 17-acre section of West Harlem, was met with mixed reactions.

Auto Repairs Shops Evicted by Columbia

Thursday, July 05, 2007 | | Topic: Economic Development

Twenty mechanics from three auto repairs shops near 131st Street and Broadway are wondering how they will support their families after their businesses are shut down on July 31st. Columbia University has given out eviction notices to the shops as a result of Columbia’s campus-expansion plan.

Collusion Between State and University in Columbia Expansion?

Saturday, June 30, 2007 | New York Times | Topic: Economic Development

Plans by Columbia University to use eminent domain to expand its Manhattanville campus are being called into question by a state judge for possible collusion between the state's Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and the university. The judge is forcing the university to hand over many of its documents to a group of property holders to uncover whether the ESDC and Columbia intentionally used the same consultant to work on the expansion project.

Bad Timing for Columbia University Review

Monday, June 04, 2007 | WNYC | Topic: Economic Development

The Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) for Columbia University’s expansion plan began today. Manhattan Community Board 9 is not pleased with the timing of the procedure, as the 60-day process is set to take place when many community boards throughout the city are on break, thus potentially reducing the impact of New York residents’ feedback.

Timing of Columbia's Land Use Review Process Unsettles Some

Friday, June 01, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Politics & Government

Columbia University's 17-acre expansion plans into West Harlem will receive their first official land use review hearings this Monday. The timing of the review process is bothersome to many elected officials and community residents who believe that the summer schedule will exclude full community input. Some members of local Community Board 9 and the West Harlem Local Development Corporation complain that many community board members take extended weeklong vacations during the summer months, making consistent community input difficult during the process. The university's expansion plans require a rezoning, as well as state determination of blight in order to allow eminent domain seizures of neighboring properties.

Columbia Invests Heavily in Lobbying For Expansion Proposal

Thursday, May 24, 2007 | New York Sun | Topic: Land Use

Columbia has been increasing its spending on lobbying as it continues to work on gaining approval from the city for its controversial expansion. Such spending has become the norm for developers seeking approval for large projects recently. The projects opponents have also enlisted a lobbyist, but there spending is far outpaced by Columbia, who has spent more than $400,000 since January. The proposal will begin a public review process in upcoming months, explaining the surge in spending.

Public Hearing Tonight on Columbia Expansion Rezoning

Monday, April 30, 2007 | AM New York | Topic: Land Use

A public hearing being held tonight should give West Harlem community members the chance to express opinions and ideas for the proposed neighborhood rezoning which will allow the Columbia University Expansion. The new zoning plans will change allowed building heights while also providing for creation of affordable housing and anti-harassment legislation. The Community Board has stressed that getting public approval for the project is key, and that the current proposal is not final. Opponents of the plan are worried about loss of the neighborhood’s character and rising rents, or the use of eminent domain. Others believe a larger presence of Columbia could have a beneficial impact, bringing in jobs and money.

Call for West Harlem Special District; Rethinking Columbia’s Expansion

Wednesday, April 18, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer is calling on the city to make a special-purpose zoning district out of all of West Harlem, from 125th Street to 145th Street, Convent Avenue to the Hudson River, in order to internalize all of the ripple effects that Columbia University’s expansion plans will have on the larger Manhattanville community. Stringer articulates that it is foolish to believe that only the community inside of the university’s 17-acre plan will be affected by the expansion proposal, citing the likely neighborhood changes that will occur outside of the $7 billion footprint. While the university’s expansion will inevitably bring positive developments to the Harlem area (jobs, investment, cultural resources), it will also usher in unwanted effects: eminent domain, higher property values, and potential polarization of the local and university communities. Stringer believes that a West Harlem Special District will involve the local community in the planning process in a meaningful, participatory, and lasting way.

An Argument Against Columbia's Possible Use of Eminent Domain

Wednesday, April 04, 2007 | New York Post | Topic: Land Use

This New York Post article by Manhattan Institute fellow Julia Vitullo-Martin argues that Columbia University's expansion into its surrounding neighborhood will carry a net positive outcome for the city and the Manhattanville community but the university's method of expansion is flawed. In particular, Vitullo-Martin claims that Columbia should not employ eminent domain powers by declaring the surrounding area "blighted." Rather, she argues, the university should rightfully acquire the property that it intends to use for its expansion plans. Additionally, the author attributes economic stagnation in the 17 acres on which the university plans to build to a city-zoning ordinance that only allows for industrial uses.

Slow Progress On Rezoning For Columbia Expansion May Be Partially Political

Monday, April 02, 2007 | Crain's New York Business | Topic: Politics & Government

Columbia University’s controversial expansion plan may be being delayed until authorities have some sign of how Governor Spitzer wants to approach the issue. The school

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