Brooklyn Heights Library demolition is approved by the city

The redevelopment of the former Brooklyn Heights Library into a tall residential tower is now able to move forward. Following a recent approval of plans by the Department of Buildings, the agency has now given developers the green light to proceed with demolition of the current two-story structure, reports Brooklyn Daily Eagle.

Many local residents have been opposed to this project from the get-go, going as far as suing developer Hudson Companies in an attempt to halt the redevelopment. A judge dismissed the suit in July 2016 (though an appeal has been filed).

In December, the DOB approved Marvel Architects’s plans for 34 stories of apartments; a newer, smaller library with a dedicated STEM education lab; and retail space on the ground floor. The project also comes with a 114-unit affordable housing component on Fulton Street and Atlantic Avenue.

Per the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, a spokesperson for Hudson Companies said that interior demolition will begin as early as next week and the rest of the demolition is scheduled to begin at the end of March, lasting for about 12 weeks. Completion is anticipated for spring 2020.

• NYC approves demolition of Brooklyn Heights Library, paving way for luxury tower [Brooklyn Daily Eagle]
• Brooklyn Heights library tower set to rise with DOB approval [Curbed]
• Brooklyn Heights Library Lawsuit Dismissed, Clearing Way for Redevelopment [Curbed]