The Municipal Art Society of New York (MAS) has just announced A Closer LOOK, a new series of in-depth conversations focusing on important issues facing New York City. The first public initiative of MAS’s new President Gina Pollara, A Closer LOOK‘s first session will focus on the recent proposed amendment to New York State’s Multiple Dwelling Law that would remove the FAR cap on residential development in New York City. The amendment is intended to increase density and expand opportunities for affordable housing. However, this legislation created an uproar in neighborhoods all over the city; the proposal was tabled in favor of greater public review.

However, the meaning of this proposal and its deferral have significant implications for the city’s future and its pressing need for more affordable housing. This—and other important questions—will be the focus of A Closer LOOK‘s first session. The invited guests include:

Moses Gates, AICP, Director, Community Planning and Design, Regional Planning Association
George Janes, Founding Principal, George M. Janes & Associates
Senator Liz Krueger, New York State Senate, 28th District
Michael Kwartler, President, Environmental Simulation Center
Gina Pollara, President, The Municipal Art Society
Carl Weisbrod, Chairman, New York City Planning Commission

A Closer LOOK will take place at The Look Building, 488 Madison Avenue, Suite 1900 on September 19th. The schedule will be:

6:30 PM Doors Open
6:45 PM Keynote by Senator Liz Krueger
7:00 PM Panel Discussion
8:00 PM Q & A
8:30 PM Event Ends

For more details on how to attend, contact: info@mas.org.