Bill > S01203

This bill seeks to fully repeal the Columbia University Education Mixed-Use Development Land Use Improvement and Civic Project Modified General Project Plan that was originally adopted by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) on December 18, 2008. The legislative intent section provides extensive context, explaining that the project was highly controversial within the Harlem community, with residents viewing it as a potential land grab that would displace Black residents and businesses. The bill highlights that the project was criticized for its use of "blight" and eminent domain powers, with the Appellate Division of the New York State Supreme Court previously finding that the ESDC violated due process, conducted a blight study lacking factual basis, and appeared to collude with Columbia University. The bill argues that the project threatened the existence of West Harlem and Washington Heights, and was never approved by any elected body. By repealing the plan, the bill aims to stop any further actions that could potentially harm the local community, and the repeal would take effect immediately upon passage.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1203