The Staten Island Chapter of the American Institute of Architects was proud to share three presentations with its members on February 21, 2019 which centered around how Architects can improve the planning of our local community here in Staten island. These ideas covered very broad subjects such has housing, business and how to attract new companies to Staten island, density, population growth, transportation and many others. We were proud to have been able to make this presentation to the many members of our Chapter as well as to Councilwoman Debbie Rose, Councilman Steve Matteo’s office and Councilman Joseph Borelli’s office. The meeting centered around three key studies which are important to the residents of Staten Island.
1. A presentation of the AIA Regional / Urban Design Assistance Team (R/UDAT): Staten Island. This topic was be presented by Staten Island Architects Timothy Boyland and David Businelli. The AIA was excited about the challenge posed by one of the largest underutilized waterfronts in any American city and the largest supply of vacant land in NYC. The AIA agreed to send a R/UDAT to provide an outside set of non-biased experts to make recommendations and challenge the community to reexamine the task of improving the waterfront. The findings of this report were presented at the meeting.
2. A presentation of the upcoming amendments to the NYC Zoning Resolution which will be released by City Planning Commission (CPC) shortly. This topic was presented by Philip L. Rampulla, Urban Planner of Rampulla Associate Architects. This Zoning Resolution amendment will encompass changes that will deeply affect all parts of Staten Island in a dramatic manner. It is the AIA’s opinion that these changes will significantly impact the constituents of Staten Island and their ability to maintain and develop their properties.
3. A presentation of “A Vision for Staten Island”. This topic was presented by its author Eugene Flotteron, RA who is a partner in the firm CetraRuddy as well a life-long resident of Staten Island. Mr. Flotteron’ s “A Vision for Staten Island” has been featured in Business Weekly, Crain’s New York Business, NY1 and the Staten Island Advance. The study tackles everything from the borough’s history and current trajectory to transit needs and growth opportunities. The goal: a sustainable, attractive and resilient Staten Island that offers live-work-play opportunities while maintaining and enhancing existing communities to rival any metro-area location.