Makes goal of sustainability a permanent part of city government

The Big Apple is one step closer to becoming the “Green Apple,” following Wednesday's passage of legislation in the New York City Council that will ensure residents can enjoy more trees, open space and long-term sustainability planning.

The legislation passed Wednesday will add about 10,000 trees to the cityscape each year.The City Council passed three bills on these issues. The first, Intro. 395-A, will make the Mayor’s Office of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability permanent. It also requires an updated sustainability report every four years, as well as annual reporting on sustainability indicators and the implementation of initiatives.

The second is an amendment to the city’s Zoning Resolution on street trees. The amendment requires the planting of street trees in all zoning districts for new developments, major enlargements and some changes in use. It calls for one tree to be planted for every 25 feet of street frontage, and will result in approximately 10,000 new trees being planted each year.

The third is an amendment to the city’s Zoning Resolution on yards and open space. The amendment would promote green streetscapes, address safety in front yards and increase the amount of open space and permeability. The new regulations would apply to new developments and existing developments that are being enlarged.

All three pieces of legislation codify elements of PlaNYC , a 127-point cross-sector sustainability plan announced by Mayor Michael Bloomberg last year.

“For years, New York City has been defined by a skyline of steel, concrete and brick. With the passage of legislation today, we are adding the elements of trees and open space to that vital mix,” said Marcia Bystryn, president of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “And by making the Office of Long-Term Planning and Sustainability permanent, the City Council and Mayor Bloomberg are helping to make the goal of sustainability permanent a part of New York City’s political landscape as well.”