October 28, 2025

CITY HALL, NY–– On Wednesday, October 29, at the New York City Council’s Stated Meeting, Council Member Eric Dinowitz introduced legislation requiring the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to increase the percentage of affordable two- and three-bedroom rental units in projects receiving City financial assistance for low-income households. These “covered projects” are those that receive City funds to construct or rehabilitate dwelling units offered for rent. Under this bill, the share of two- and three-bedroom apartments in such developments must be at least equal to the citywide percentage of households living in occupied dwellings with two to five members.

As New York City continues efforts to build thousands of new apartments across the five boroughs, too few of these units are designed for families. Many new developments prioritize studios and one-bedroom units, limiting options for families seeking affordable, comfortable homes. Developers often favor smaller units to maximize profit margins and manage high construction costs, leaving a gap in housing that meets the needs of working families.

Council Member Dinowitz’s bill ensures that any new apartment buildings receiving City financial assistance include a meaningful proportion of larger, family-sized apartments. This measure will help keep families in New York City, ensuring that the affordable housing we build truly meets the needs of the people who call this city home.

“When developers rely on City financing for their housing projects, we have a responsibility to ensure those projects meet the needs of New Yorkers seeking the affordable housing they deserve,” said Council Member Eric Dinowitz. “Too often, affordable housing developments prioritize smaller units, leaving families with fewer options when applying for housing. HPD’s current term sheets have also led to delays and fail to reflect the realities families face – challenges that have only been worsened by our ongoing housing crisis. By requiring a higher percentage of two- and three-bedroom apartments in City-supported projects, this bill ensures that our public investments create real homes for families who want to live, work, and raise their children in New York City.”

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