CORRECTION: An earlier email incorrectly stated that the hearing would start at 7:30 pm. 

The hearing will start at 5:30 PM. 

Dear Neighbors,

I am writing to urge you to attend an important community hearing TONIGHT at the New Utrecht Library, 1743 86th Street, at 5:30 PM, regarding the proposed redevelopment of the Bensonhurst Library and the adjacent municipal parking lot.

This project has the potential to significantly change the character and scale of the surrounding neighborhood, and it is critical that local residents hear directly from the developers and make their voices heard. While many details have not yet been shared publicly, it is clear that the scope of what is being considered could far exceed what most residents would expect on this site.

Projects of this type and size often raise serious questions about building height, density, parking loss, and long-term impact on local services.

Your presence is essential to ensure the community is not overwhelmed by a development that may be out of step with the needs and character of Bensonhurst.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM
WHERE: New Utrecht Library
1743 86th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11214

Please register here:
https://www.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/new-utrecht-library-rfp.page

Please share this information with neighbors, family, and friends. A strong turnout sends a clear message that the community must be consulted before any major development moves forward.

We are currently on Stage 1 of the process. Your input on the future of the New Utrecht Library site matters! The community visioning phase is your chance to help shape the Request for Proposals (RFP) and the local community. City planners gather input from the local community about what we want for the site.

You can:

• share concerns
• say what you want in a new library
• express needs for the neighborhood
• discuss what kinds of housing, public space, or programming you want

TL;DR:

Stage 1 (Community Visioning) is where the City collects community input to define what the neighborhood wants, and uses that input to shape the criteria that developers must follow in the RFP.

If you have an idea for a law or need assistance with a state-related matter, contact Senator Chan's office.