The rezoning of 125th Street has been a subject of controversy and has not yet been approved. The Department of City Planning believes the rezoning of 125th Street will result in positive economic changes. I personally believe these changes would negatively impact Harlem residents and business owners. According to the New York City Planning Commission, the rezoning will result in new businesses and housing. Residents and business owners disagree because they believe it plays a larger role in promoting further “gentrification.” I believe Harlem should be able to maintain its cultural heritage while promoting and changing economic growth. The rezoning of 125th Street is frowned upon by people who have lived there and those who have businesses, because there would be an increased amount of residential development and there would be concerns about affordability. If the goal of the mailer is to bring positive change to Harlem, then no party needs to be negatively affected. However, modifying the existing plan could mitigate these negative effects. Harlem residents understand that these changes need to happen, but they now live in fear of being removed from a place they considered a strong cultural foundation. I propose that the following changes be made to the proposal so that local businesses, artists or residents are all positively affected. Bullet points from the plan amendmentI. Summary of the 125th Rezoning Plan The plan is to fortify 125th Street. The rezoning would affect the corridor bordered by Broadway, Second Avenue and 124th and 126th Streets. Changes would be made by developing luxury housing units, replacing local businesses and adding taller buildings. The rezoning will improve...... middle of paper ...... example, in order to support and enhance 125th Street as a main street in Manhattan, changes to the plan such as creating new incentives for new developments, the promotion of affordable housing with strict terms and conditions and finally the protection of the existing scale and character, should be added in a new amendment to the plan. Another recommendation would be directed toward supporting the creation of premier arts, culture and entertainment destinations. The modifications would aim to strengthen the mass of the premises, encourage complementary uses and improve the pedestrian experience. This would help maintain the character of 125th Street. Yes, Harlem needs a “makeover,” but that doesn’t mean destroying the culture it already has. New regulations should be imposed on street vendors. New affordable housing qualifications should be applied. Landmarks like the Apollo Theater