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Putting our zoning on a permissive basis - that is, spelling out specifically what can go into a given area - will always keep up abreast of the times.

PREPARING THE RESOLUTION

The need for a modern Zoning Resolution for the City of New York has been apparent for many years. Previous attempts to seek a thorough revision of the present resolution have been frustrated, largely because there were some who felt that they could profit on the weaknesses of the existing resolution; others who opposed change in general; City leadership that was indifferent to new zoning, and a general public that was equally apathetic or misinformed. The last two factors, at least, have changed. Under the leadership of Mayor Robert F. Wagner - who himself launched the Planning Commission's first effort for modern zoning in 1948 - and bolstered by an informed and enthusiastic public, we are confident that an efficient Zoning Resolution will soon be a reality.

The first step in carrying out this new Resolution came in August 1956 when the Board of Estimate, acting on the recommendation of the Mayor and the City Planning Commission, approved funds for a complete study and report on a new Zoning Resolution. Voorhees Walker Smith and Smith, an architectural and planning firm, was selected as consultants to carry out this assignment. The consultants, operating in close cooperation with staff of the Department of City Planning, worked for almost two years on the project. During this time a first-hand examination was made of virtually every block - developed or undeveloped - in the City. Mapping was based on studies made on foot, by auto, by boat and by helicopter. The product of this study, "Zoning New York City," was 

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submitted to the Planning Commission and published in February 1959.

The proposal, termed a "desirable and fresh approach" by the American Institute of Architects and hailed by major housing, planning and civic groups, was subjected to intensive hearings in every borough and on every aspect of its coverage. Civic, professional and business groups offered intelligent and helpful recommendations. Organizations such as the New York City Bar Association and the Citizens Union suggested legal changes which the Commission has incorporated in its Resolution.

Altogether, the Planning Commission and its staff held seven informal public hearings, more than 750 conferences and meetings with groups and individuals, received well over 1,000 communications ad reports on zoning changes and rechecked several thousand miles of street in remapping studies.

Last June, the Planning Commission announced that the proposed zoning would become effective one year after approval by the Board of Estimate, but not before July 1, 1961, "to insure maximum stability in the building and real estate industries during the important transition period."

CHANGES IN THE RESOLUTION

The Planning Commission used the consultants' proposal as a basis for this Resolution, but took nothing for granted. The new Resolution differs considerable from the Voorhees Walker Smith and Smith proposal, but the basic concepts remain: a single-map system with direct controls on permitted use, maximum bulk and density, and parking. The emphasis remains on achieving realistic densities in any given district while permitting city-wide